At BRS, we believe literacy is the foundation for a child’s future and a joyful part of everyday learning. Our classrooms are nurturing spaces where every child is recognized as a reader and writer. Read-alouds, group discussions and school traditions highlight student voice while fostering both a love of language and essential literacy skills. Teachers build caring relationships and provide individualized guidance, ensuring every child feels encouraged in their literacy journey.

Our elementary literacy program is aligned with New York State Next Generation Learning Standards and is grounded in the Science of Reading. Instruction follows a structured literacy approach, providing students with explicit, systematic, and sequential teaching in the components of reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

In the primary grades, students build strong phonemic awareness skills through Heggerty and develop phonics, spelling and word study skills through Fundations (K-4). These programs provide direct, multi-sensory instruction that ensures students develop accurate and fluent word recognition skills.

To support growth in comprehension, vocabulary, and fluency, teachers deliver research-based instruction through whole-group lessons, targeted small-group instruction, read-alouds, and independent reading practice. Resources such as Reading Fundamentals are used strategically to support comprehension and vocabulary development, always within a structured literacy framework. Teachers use ongoing assessments to monitor progress and provide individualized support so that students receive instruction tailored to their needs.

Writing instruction is an essential part of our school day. Students learn to write in three key genres - narrative, informational, and opinion - while also receiving explicit instruction in grammar, spelling, and conventions. They engage in the writing process (planning, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing) to develop clear, effective written communication skills.

Through this structured and research-based approach, our goal is to ensure all students become confident, capable readers and writers who are prepared for all subjects. Just as importantly, we want students to see themselves as joyful readers and writers whose voices matter. At BRS, we celebrate growth, honor student effort, and create lasting traditions that make literacy a meaningful part of our school community.

K-4 ELA Scope and Sequence

At Bedford Road School, our mathematics program is designed to develop confident, capable mathematicians who are prepared to meet real-world challenges. Aligned with the New York State Next Generation Learning Standards, our approach emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration. Students develop both conceptual understanding and the ability to solve problems efficiently. We focus on helping students develop strong number sense, reasoning skills, and the ability to apply mathematical concepts with confidence.

Our K-4 classrooms use Eureka Math, a research-based curriculum that builds knowledge in a logical, coherent sequence. Students engage with hands-on activities, visual models, manipulatives, and real-world problems that allow them to make connections. Instruction includes whole-class lessons, small-group support, and independent practice, giving students multiple ways to explore and master math ideas. Teachers track progress and provide tailored support so that every student is challenged and supported.

At Bedford Road, mathematics is more than numbers - it is an opportunity to develop curiosity, perseverance, and critical thinking. Through teamwork, hands-on exploration and explicit instruction, students see themselves as mathematicians using their newfound knowledge to understand the world.

At BRS, our Science and Social Studies instruction is designed to spark curiosity, encourage exploration, and help students make connections between their learning and the world around them. Students engage in hands-on, inquiry-based activities through STEAM experiences. These interactive investigations promote critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration. Interdisciplinary connections with literacy, the arts, and other subjects help reinforce key concepts and make learning meaningful.

Our curriculum incorporates Science 21, a standards-aligned program that deepens understanding of scientific concepts through experiments, investigations, and real-world applications. Social Studies instruction draws from multiple sources, including the Integrated SS/ELA curriculum created by PNW BOCES. This program helps to ensure students explore history, geography, civics, and culture in engaging and developmentally appropriate ways.

Through this approach, students develop the skills to ask questions, investigate ideas, and think critically about the world around them. By connecting science and social studies to other content areas, Bedford Road students gain a strong foundation. By understanding people, places, and the environment, our youngest learners become thoughtful, informed, and engaged citizens.

The STEAM program at Bedford Road School provides students with engaging, hands-on opportunities to explore science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics through collaborative problem-solving. Students work in teams to tackle developmentally appropriate challenges that encourage creativity, critical thinking, and perseverance.

Through units such as Engineering Around Us, Solving Problems with LEGO, The Five Senses, Life Cycles, and The Human Body, students apply inquiry and design thinking to real-world concepts. The STEAM room comes alive with thoughtful discussion, teamwork, and celebrations of success as students solve problems, support one another, and learn by doing.

The Visual Arts program at Bedford Road School nurtures creativity, curiosity, and self-expression through hands-on projects and artistic exploration. Students study the Elements and Principles of Art and Design, while also learning about artists and art movements. In addition, students explore color theory, art history, and design concepts in meaningful, developmentally appropriate ways.

Through this approach, students build confidence, creative skills, and critical thinking while learning to reflect on their own work and appreciate art in the world around them. Our program fosters individuality and imagination, helping every child find their own artistic voice and understand the lasting value of creativity in their lives.

At Bedford Road School, our music program invites students to explore rhythm, melody, and movement through joyful songs, games, and performances. Aligned with the New York State Learning Standards for the Arts, students create, perform, respond, and connect to music across a variety of styles, genres, and cultures.

Our program nurtures creativity, collaboration, and self-expression while helping students see music as both an art form and a universal language. Whether learning an instrument, singing in an ensemble, or moving to a rhythm, every child discovers the joy of making music and a connection they can carry for life.

The Bedford Road School Library is a vibrant hub of curiosity and learning. It brings together literature, research, digital literacy, technology, and makerspace exploration – all anchored by a love of reading and discovery. Students explore a wide range of texts, learn about authors and illustrators, and develop the skills to locate and use information responsibly.

Through hands-on projects, coding challenges, and creative digital tools, students learn to express ideas and think critically. Third and fourth graders gain real-world workflow experience through the use of iPads and SeeSaw digital journals, helping them prepare for middle school and beyond. The library experience at BRS empowers students to grow as readers, thinkers and creators – making learning engaging and fun!

At Bedford Road School, our Physical Education program builds both physical and health literacy in a fun, inclusive and developmentally appropriate environment. Aligned with SHAPE America standards, students develop essential movement skills – locomotor, non-locomotor, manipulative, and body management – while also learning the importance of teamwork, cooperation and perseverance through games and challenges.

Throughout the year, students engage in exciting experiences such as Healthy Heart Week and Field Day. These opportunities promote fitness, wellness, and school spirit across all grade levels. Through a variety of sports, fitness circuits, yoga, dance and creative twists on classic games, students build confidence, discover new interests, and develop healthy habits that last a lifetime.