Programs
Frostig School Pasadena is a non-public and independent school where students with learning differences rediscover their love of learning and grow academically, socially and emotionally. The Frostig experience begins with a specialized academic curriculum and expands to include a rich array of programs that provides students with multiple pathways to success.
At Frostig School, teachers recognize and value the unique gifts and challenges of our youngest learners.
Frostig School’s elementary program is for children in grades Kindergarten through 5th grade. Our classes are limited to 12 students, which allows our credentialed teachers and aides to deliver an individualized learning plan to each student. During the day students may break out into small groups or enjoy one-to-one instruction.
Because each child has unique strengths, challenges, and learning styles, Frostig utilizes a variety of teaching techniques, particularly when it comes to language arts. Our teachers are trained to use strategies from several evidence-based programs, including Lindamood-Bell, Step up to Writing, Wilson Reading System and Touch Math.
The academic curriculum is aligned with California state standards and incorporates reading, math, social studies, science and PE. Students work from iPads throughout the day to access lessons, worksheets and assistive technology. Academics are enriched and supported by art, music, drama, computer science and on-site clinical services.
Students also have a weekly social learning class, which provides explicit instruction in how to understand and manage emotions, show empathy and build positive relationships.
Throughout the school day—in classrooms and on the playground–students are encouraged to develop a set of characteristics known at Frostig as the Success Attributes. Research has shown that the Success Attributes–goal setting, perseverance, emotional coping strategies, self-awareness, support networks and pro-activity–are necessary to live a rewarding and productive life.
Middle school is an exciting, challenging, and sometimes confusing time of life. Students in grades 6-8 are transitioning from Elementary School, where many things were done for them, to High School, where independence is the goal. Frostig School provides a safe, supportive environment where adolescents can experience success and thrive.
Classes are limited to 12 students and staffed by a credentialed teacher and a teaching assistant who together can provide small group and one-on-one instruction. Students have a homeroom teacher and switch classes for some subjects. Every student is provided with a laptop or iPad that they use throughout the day for their classes.
Frostig utilizes a variety of teaching techniques in order to meet the unique needs of every student. Our teachers are trained to use strategies from several evidence-based programs, including Lindamood-Bell, Wilson Reading System, Orton-Gillingham, Step up to Writing, Touch Math and Singapore Math.
The curriculum is aligned with California state standards and includes language arts, social studies, math, science, and PE. Academics are enriched and supported by art, music, drama, PE, computer science, on-site clinical services, field trips and student clubs.
Students also have a weekly social learning class that helps them with the unwritten rules of social interaction, which are particularly challenging in middle school. Our students benefit from explicit instruction in building positive relationships, conflict resolution and showing empathy for others.
Throughout the school day, students are encouraged to develop a set of characteristics known at Frostig as the Success Attributes. Research has shown that the Success Attributes–goal setting, perseverance, emotional coping strategies, self-awareness, support networks and pro-activity–are necessary to live a rewarding and productive life. Activities to nurture the Success Attributes are woven into all aspects of the school day, from the classroom to the school yard to student clubs.
High school is the time and place for teen-agers to work hard, think about the future, establish their own identity, develop independence and have fun. The Frostig high school program supports every aspect of development.
The high school program offers two approaches to learning depending on the unique needs of the student. Some students are enrolled in courses that focus on traditional academics and lead to a high school diploma. Others enroll in classes that emphasize applied academics and lead to a certificate of completion. Many of our students go on to community college.
Classes are limited to 12 students and staffed by a credentialed teacher and a teaching assistant who together can provide small group and one-on-one instruction. Students are assigned a homeroom and switch classes for a 7-period day that includes language arts, social studies, math, science, PE, and elective courses in computer science, art, drama film and music. High school students are provided Chromebooks that they use throughout the day to access lessons, assignments and digital resources.
Frostig utilizes a variety of teaching techniques in order to meet the unique needs of every student. Our teachers are trained to use strategies from several evidence-based programs, including Lindamood-Bell, Wilson Reading System, Orton-Gillingham and Step up to Writing.
Students also have a weekly social learning class that helps them with the unwritten rules of social interaction. Our students benefit from explicit instruction in building positive relationships, conflict resolution and showing empathy for others.
Throughout the school day, students are encouraged to develop a set of characteristics known at Frostig as the Success Attributes. Research has shown that the Success Attributes–goal setting, perseverance, emotional coping strategies, self-awareness, support networks and pro-activity–are necessary to live a rewarding and productive life. Activities to nurture the Success Attributes are woven into all aspects of the school day, from the classroom to the school yard to student clubs.
Transition Planning
We believe one of our biggest responsibilities is to prepare our students for success after high school. Starting freshman year, high school students benefit from an exceptional Transition Program that offers classes on career exploration, development of employment skills, social learning, and independent living skills.
One of our most innovative and popular programs is the student-run Fly-By Café, an on-campus cafe that offers lunch service to students and staff. Students learn to take orders, prepare food and drinks, make change and interact with customers. In the process they develop the hard and soft skills necessary for success in the work place.
To help families with transition planning, Frostig staff compiled a comprehensive collection of resources for transition-aged teens and young adults. The Transition Resource Guide includes information on government agencies and programs, legal and advocacy resources, residential independent living programs, and much more. Click here to download the guide: Transition Resource Guide 2021
High school wouldn’t be complete with opportunities to shine outside the classroom. Students may play competitive sports, star in school concerts and musicals, join Leadership Council, enjoy field trips and plan school dances and special events.
“Our son has shown such improvement and joy since attending Frostig, this is a good place with amazing people.”
FROSTIG PARENT