Our Proven Methods

Direct Instruction:
Research-Validated Education

Mt. Helix Academy’s teaching methods are research-validated, scientifically proven  to achieve measurably superior academic performance and positive student behavior. We are the only K-8 school in San Diego to comprehensively use such methods, called "Direct Instruction."

Scientifically based teaching looks very different from what you will see in other schools. Teachers actively teach and students actively learn much more often than is typical. Teachers also praise students dramatically more often than is common. Students are taught how to transition and how to attend and participate, so "down time" is but a tiny fraction of the day. Teaching occurs in small groups comprised of students who have about the same ability in each specific subject.

The teacher guides students through each skill again and again much as a coach would do. Frequently the whole group responds in unison, permitting all students to practice what is being taught. Students give correct answers far more often than is typical and, when a wrong response is made, the teacher will immediately correct the error, usually to the entire group. Students are never put down. As a result, students are neither frustrated nor embarrassed.