Our Support Program
Building self-esteem is a major focus of the Pilot program. Pilot realizes the importance of discovering and building on each student's strengths. The program provides many opportunities for this:
The Arts: The arts play an important role in allowing students to express themselves and explore their talents. Every student is offered the chance to participate successfully in some form of musical expression; in either a group music session, an individual music therapy session, or in a special music ensemble. Students also take part in weekly visual art classes that allow them to further their creativity through a wide range of hands-on activities.
Physical Fitness: Since a healthy mind and body are essential for students to develop to their fullest potential, Pilot offers a variety of opportunities for physical activity through physical education classes, early morning kickball, run club, and after-school sports. For Upper Division students, Pilot offers co-ed competitive teams with other local independent schools in soccer, basketball and lacrosse. The school is a member of the Delaware Interscholastic Athletic Association (DIAA). Through adaptive physical education instruction, and life sports experiences, our physical education teachers stimulate motor development and encourage teamwork and perseverance in a spirit of healthy, cooperative competition.
Aquatics Program: An aquatics program, taught by a full-time swimming instructor, is based on the American Red Cross Swimming and Water Safety Programs. It helps students to become "water safe" and "water wise" while developing basic swimming strokes. Students also learn small craft skills, basic snorkeling techniques and play aquatic games.
Technology: Opportunities to develop technology skills are layered throughout the school program. Students regularly visit the computer and writing labs, in addition to using Alpha Smart Word Processing keyboards in their classroom. These and other technologies such as SMART Boards and audio recordings help to prepare students for life in a technologically advancing world. Assistive technology is continuously explored and provided when needed to help children who will require this type of support to perform successfully at their potential. The Universal Design for learning means that technology can make learning accessible to all students.
Library: Our librarian helps foster a love of learning through a collection which contains over 10,000 education resources from books, periodicals, and audio-visual materials. Students take part in oral book reports ("Book Talks"), learn research skills and visit the library weekly. Book Fairs also occur each year, providing the students opportunities to browse and purchase books of their liking.
Science: Through exploration and discovery, we want students to see the role of science in everyday life as they develop personal attitudes and values which underlie the involvement of the individual with his or her environment. Using the senses, comparing physical properties of solids and liquids, life cycles, habitats for living things, weather, movement and balance, and healthy growth and development, are examples of topics younger students will cover. Older students learn about the Scientific Method of Inquiry, and utilize laboratory materials in collecting and organizing scientific information. Field trips support learning.
Field Trips and Outdoor Activities: Outside of the classroom, field trips, outdoor activities and practical demonstrations engage minds and bodies, encourage enthusiastic involvement and stimulate a love of learning throughout the school year. During the summer session in June, students can take part in a wide range of activities such as archery, bicycling, bowling, nature walks, and cooking. By participating in these activities, students build confidence, responsibility, independence, cooperation and communication skills. Best of all, students learn to perceive education as being enjoyable rather than intimidating.