Our School
George Washington is one of Mahwah’s primary K-3 schools. Set in the Fardale area of Mahwah, the school is affectionately known as “The Little School in the Woods.” With approximately 190 students enrolled, George Washington School strives to ensure that each child reaches their full potential both academically and socially. A staff dedicated to collaboration, common planning, and cross-curricular articulation ensures that our goal of maximizing student potential is accomplished. George Washington’s school community is enhanced by an active Home School Organization that provides funding and volunteers for various programs that supplement classroom instruction. Together, our administration, teachers, parents, and students form a unique, close-knit school community.
George Washington School offers a diverse range of programs to ensure that all students achieve success. Our entire current curriculum has been revised or rewritten to align with the New Jersey Student Learning Standards. Along with the two other primary schools in the district, George Washington uses a balanced literacy approach to instruction. This includes the implementation of Writers Workshop, Readers Workshop, and Open Court Foundational Skills. Our K–5 students use i-Ready Classroom Mathematics, a research-based program designed to build a deep understanding of math concepts and strengthen problem-solving skills through math discourse and discussions. Lessons are designed to be hands-on, encouraging students to explain their thinking, work collaboratively, and apply math in real-world situations. The program also provides teachers with tools to meet the needs of all learners, whether they need extra support or enrichment. Our goal is to help every student develop confidence, curiosity, and a strong foundation in mathematics. Science and Social Studies instruction focuses on honing students’ literacy skills through the reading of non-fiction texts. Students are also exposed to hands-on learning experiences provided by Knowing Science. These experiences include standards-based experiments on topics such as: ponds, simple machines, recycling, matter, and sound.
At George Washington School, we recognize that each child is different. A flexible, small-group instruction model is used to provide focused, skill-specific instruction. This small-group instruction model provides an opportunity for all students to receive the individualized instruction necessary for success. In addition, an in-class resource room model is implemented for special education students. The model employs a co-teaching approach, providing special education students with the opportunity to receive individualized instruction in the general education classroom. The model ensures that all students are exposed to the same curriculum, provides opportunities for students to participate in peer discussions with enriching age-appropriate language, and minimizes social stigma. When needed, students also have the opportunity to receive small-group Tier 3 reading and math instruction as part of the New Jersey Tiered System of Supports (NJTSS). This replacement program is taught by the building's reading and math specialists. Furthermore, each student’s progress is monitored carefully on an ongoing basis. If concerns arise, remedial measures are discussed by an I&RS team that includes the principal, teachers, and child study team members. Together, the team develops a plan to make sure that appropriate measures are taken to maximize student success in the general education environment.
Technology plays an important role in each school day. All classrooms at George Washington School are equipped with Promethean Boards, interactive whiteboards, and document cameras. The Promethean Boards offer a multi-sensory platform for delivering instruction across all content areas. In addition to the Promethean Boards, each classroom has laptop computers. We have a 1:1 model in our second and third-grade classrooms, a 2:1 model in our first-grade classrooms, and a 3:1 model in our kindergarten classrooms. Access to technology allows large groups of students to simultaneously learn how to safely and effectively navigate the internet, create multimedia presentations, and practice skills learned in the classroom through the use of online review games or related software. It also allows for small group instruction and differentiation to occur in ways that meet students' individual needs.
As noted above, George Washington School is committed to developing each child’s academic and social skills. To enhance social skill development and create a safe, comfortable learning environment, Responsive Classroom is used school-wide. The Responsive Classroom philosophy embraces student differences, encourages respect and kindness, and promotes a positive learning environment. The establishment of clear expectations and routines enables all students to learn in a comfortable and engaging atmosphere, where they can take academic and social risks. Students undoubtedly learn to respect themselves, respect others, and respect their school.
In addition to the aforementioned core activities, George Washington School provides a variety of extra-curricular activities, events, and programs for our students. During the school year, students participate in various events, including our Walk-A-Thon, Science Day, Author Day, Field Day, Read-A-Thon, and Book Fair. Additionally, outside presenters may visit our school to provide assemblies with a focus on anti-bullying, recycling, storytelling, and various cultures and traditions. These programs supplement many of the lessons learned during the school day and enhance each student’s experience at George Washington School.