At Curie Learning Center, we recognize that each student has a unique learning journey. Unlike standard grade-based systems, our courses are structured into distinct levels designed to cater to individual academic needs and abilities. It’s crucial to understand that course level is not dictated by a student’s grade level in their regular school. Instead, placement into a specific level is determined through a comprehensive assessment, ensuring students are appropriately challenged and supported throughout their learning experience at Curie Learning Center. Students remain in their assigned level for the duration of the course, fostering a consistent and focused learning environment. For students looking to advance more rapidly, our Curie Learning Center offers a Bridge Program during the summer. This intensive program is designed to help students bridge the gap between levels, enabling them to potentially enter a higher level that aligns more closely with their grade level in the subsequent academic year.
Enrolling at Curie Learning Center begins with a placement test, a vital step for all new students. This placement test is the cornerstone of our enrollment process, providing valuable insights into a student’s current skill set. The test evaluates both skill-based math proficiencies and reading comprehension capabilities. The results of this assessment provide a recommendation for the most suitable level for each student. While we strongly advise parents and guardians to consider our recommendations, we also respect their right to make the final decision. If a patron chooses a level outside of our professional recommendation, we require a signed statement acknowledging their understanding of this choice and its potential implications.
Within each level at Curie Learning Center, higher placements often correspond with a student’s grade level in their day school. For instance, a fifth-grade student placed in Level 5 is considered in the higher tier for their age group within our program. The curriculum at this level is thoughtfully designed, drawing inspiration from National Standards for the subsequent grade (sixth grade) and even the grade after that (seventh grade). This approach ensures that students at Curie Learning Center are not only exposed to advanced topics but also engage with problems and activities that demand a higher level of critical thinking and rigor than they might typically encounter in their regular school settings. Furthermore, the placement test may indicate that a student is better suited for a level above or below their expected grade level, ensuring truly personalized learning at Curie Learning Center.
Flexibility is key to effective learning. Curie Learning Center recognizes that students’ needs may evolve during a course. Moving to a lower level is generally a straightforward process if it becomes necessary to better support a student’s progress. However, transitioning to a higher level mid-course is generally discouraged. Students attempting to join a higher-level course in progress often face challenges due to missed foundational concepts, making a smooth and successful transition difficult.
If you are considering Curie Learning Center for the first time, we encourage you to take the first step by contact us to schedule a placement test. Discover the ideal learning environment for your child at Curie Learning Center, where personalized learning and academic growth are our priorities.
