Academics
Academics at Sea of Strengths Academy
A School Designed for How Students with Dyslexia Learn
At Sea of Strengths Academy, academics are intentionally designed for students with dyslexia and related language-based learning differences. We do not retrofit a traditional curriculum — we build instruction from the ground up around how our students process language, develop literacy, and build confidence.
Our approach combines:
Structured literacy instruction
Explicit, systematic phonics
Small-group learning
Data-driven progress monitoring
Executive functioning support
Strength-based teaching
We believe students thrive when they understand how they learn — and when their instruction finally matches their brains.
Structured Literacy & Orton-Gillingham Instruction
At the core of our academic program is structured literacy rooted in the Orton-Gillingham approach.
Students receive:
Explicit, systematic phonics instruction
Multisensory learning experiences
Direct vocabulary and morphology instruction
Structured spelling and encoding
Fluency and comprehension development
Instruction is diagnostic and prescriptive. Teachers continuously assess student progress and adjust instruction based on data — not guesswork.
We do not rely on leveled readers or guessing strategies. Students are taught the structure of the English language so they can read, spell, and write with confidence and independence.
Small Class Sizes, Individualized Support
Our intentionally small class sizes allow for:
Individualized instruction
Immediate feedback
Targeted intervention
Flexible grouping based on skill level
Strong teacher-student relationships
Students are grouped by skill needs rather than simply by age. This ensures that each child receives instruction at the appropriate level of challenge and support.
Reading, Writing & Language
Literacy is woven throughout the school day.
Reading
Students develop:
Accurate decoding
Fluency
Vocabulary
Morphological awareness
Reading comprehension strategies
We explicitly teach how language works — including syllable types, spelling rules, prefixes, suffixes, and Greek/Latin roots.
Writing
Writing instruction includes:
Sentence structure
Paragraph development
Grammar and mechanics
Structured composition
Revision and editing skills
Students learn how to organize their thoughts clearly and communicate effectively in writing.
Math
Our math instruction emphasizes:
Conceptual understanding
Explicit teaching of procedures
Visual models and manipulatives
Clear step-by-step instruction
Vocabulary support
Because language impacts math performance, we intentionally teach math vocabulary and problem-solving language to reduce cognitive overload.
Executive Functioning & Study Skills
Many students with dyslexia also benefit from explicit instruction in executive functioning skills.
We teach:
Organization systems
Time management
Task initiation strategies
Planning and prioritizing
Self-advocacy skills
Students learn not only what to learn — but how to manage their learning.
Data-Driven Instruction
Assessment is used as a tool — not a label.
We regularly monitor student progress using structured literacy assessments and skill-based data to:
Identify gaps
Track growth
Adjust instruction
Set measurable goals
Families receive clear communication about progress and next steps.
Beyond Academics: Building Confidence
Academic growth is only part of our mission.
Students at Sea of Strengths Academy:
Develop resilience
Understand their learning profile
Build confidence
Discover their strengths
Experience success in school for the first time
When students feel competent and capable, academic growth accelerates.
Serving Families in Sarasota & Manatee County
Sea of Strengths Academy serves families throughout:
Sarasota
Lakewood Ranch
Bradenton
Venice
Manatee County
Surrounding Gulf Coast communities
If you are searching for a private school for dyslexia in Sarasota or a structured literacy program in Florida, we invite you to schedule a tour and learn more about how our academic model supports long-term success.
