Why Choose Mardan?
The school experience undeniably constitutes a major factor in each child's development. For children who struggle with anxieties, social issues, frustration or impulsivity, this period of their lives can be even more critical in forming the path of their futures. Mardan offers a specialized school environment for children who need a true alternative.
Here's why:
A long-standing reputation of success
For almost 50 years, the Mardan program has resulted in the successful growth of over 90% of the students we have worked with. The many individual student and family testimonies, past and present, truly reflect that success starts here.
One size never fits all
Your child is a unique individual with a distinct personality, feelings, experiences, and therefore, learning style. We learn who your child is to tailor an educational plan with individualized goals that address his or her needs, and maximize personal potential.
Low student to staff ratio in a safe and structured environment
Class sizes are small throughout all grades to facilitate individualized attention and supports. Student/teacher ratios never exceed 1 to 6, and are often as low as 1 to 3 in the younger grades. This allows us to maintain consistent structure, and ensure the physical and emotional safety of every student.
Social and emotional intelligence + academic learning = life success
Our educational equation embraces the 'whole child.' Academic achievement, social awareness, and emotional well-being are equally important to thrive. In addition to a rigorous academic curriculum that follows California State Standards, we offer therapeutic supports, social skills instruction, and necessary interventions as part of the regular school day in a thorough and balanced approach.
Not just a classroom but an entire community
Community defines the Mardan experience, inside and outside the school. Within our walls, students feel accepted and noticed as they are guided in developing relationships with staff and peers. We foster a mutually respectful environment where they are listened to and are a part of the problem-solving process. Families are an essential component of our overall community. We strive to maintain regular contact with you, and other individuals involved in your child's life, to work together as a team.
Our end goal is to instill a love of learning
Success is more than acing a test or earning a good report card. Our teachers know the importance of gaining 'buy-in' and motivating students to find satisfaction in learning. They use a variety of instructional approaches, such as multi-sensory activities and technology tools, to provide academic experiences that attach meaning to learning goals. Check out our Student Showcase to see a few of these memorable projects.