Classrooms
At PS9, students learn in several different types of classroom environments. When necessary, students in any classroom may receive additional academic support and/or services.
Dual Language Spanish-English Immersion
The Dual Language Spanish-English Immersion (DL) program began at PS9 in the 2011-2012 school year with one kindergarten class. PS9 now has DL classes in all grades from pre-kindergarten to grade 5. Classes follow a model where all subjects are taught in each language 50% of the time, and are made up of a mix of students who are English Language Learners (ELL) and English Proficient (EP). The model used is meant to educate and support both populations in their non-native language.
While there are often two DL classes in each grade, this number may vary depending on interest and the number of qualifying students.
General Education
General Education (GE) classrooms at PS9 are taught in English by one teacher. There is usually one GE classroom per grade level, but that number may vary depending on interest and qualifying students.
Gifted and Talented
In 2019, PS9 petitioned for - and received - approval from the District Superintendent to phase out the test-in Gifted and Talented (G & T) program at our school. PS9 is no longer enrolling students in G & T in kindergarten through grade 2. There is currently one G & T classroom in grades 3 to 5; the final class of students in this program will graduate in 2025.
Integrated Co-Teaching
Integrated Co-Teaching (ICT) classrooms have two teachers - one general education teacher and one certified in special education. These two teachers work as a team to make any necessary adaptations to methods and techniques to meet the needs of all students. Students in ICT classrooms are all general education students, up to 40% of whom may have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). PS9 usually has one ICT class in each grade from 1 to 5.
Special Class Services
Special Class (SC) services are provided in a self-contained classroom. All of the children in the class have IEPs with needs that cannot be met in a general education classroom. They are taught by special education teachers who provide specialized instruction.
PS9 usually has two self-contained classrooms of up to 12 students. Students in these classes are within a three-year age range and have similar educational needs.