Today in the US, failure to read is the norm—only 33% of 4th graders and 29% of 8th graders can read at grade level. Even in private schools, this is less than 50% (2024 National Report Card) Despite decades of research proving that structured, multi-sensory literacy techniques significantly enhance outcomes, outdated literary instruction models are still, in large part, being taught to teachers. (APM Reports) At Linder, we use Orton-Gillingham (OG)—the gold standard in reading education—to build fluency, comprehension, and a love of reading. 100% of our teachers are trained through the Institute for Multi-Sensory Education, with intermediate-level certification or higher, ensuring every student receives exceptional literacy instruction. Linder’s progressive approach to reading as a distinct skill provides skill-appropriate structure that support gradually decreases as students become increasingly independent readers: Early learning: Kindergarteners focus on building the foundation of literacy through a multisensory approach, emphasizing phonemic awareness, letter-sound connections, and early decoding skills. OG techniques help students develop fluency in recognizing and reading simple words, setting the stage for independent reading.
 Elementary school: Students deepen their literacy skills using OG’s structured, explicit instruction. They master decoding strategies, rapidly expand their vocabulary, and develop comprehension skills through exposure to increasingly complex texts. Syllable patterns, spelling rules, and fluency exercises ensure accuracy and confidence in their reading abilities.
 Middle school: Reading moves beyond fluency to focus on comprehension and analytical skills. Students apply strategies to interpret themes, analyze complex texts, and evaluate information critically across subjects. These skills enable them to engage with advanced literature and nonfiction, preparing them for high-level academic challenges.
 With this foundation, students entering high school will be equipped with the know-how to read and analyze primary and secondary sources, synthesize ideas, make smart inferences, and evaluate arguments critically.

At Linder, we see writing as a crucial skill that reflects a child’s motor abilities, decoding and encoding skills, grammar mastery, and capacity for logical thought. Sadly, writing is one of the weakest areas in our national education, with only 29% of Virginia fourth graders and 27% of eighth graders writing at grade level—and no higher than 39% in private schools. (2024 Nations Report Card) Linder's scaffolded writing instruction grows with your child, developing essential skills at every stage of their education: Early learning: Kindergarteners build reasoning skills through hands-on activities and guided exploration. They begin recognizing patterns, categorizing information, and solving simple problems, creating the foundation for logical thinking.
 Elementary school: Using OG’s explicit and sequential instruction, students master letter formation and spelling rules, while reinforcing grammar and sentence structure. They progress to constructing basic arguments, applying logic and clarity, and developing essential written communication skills.
 Middle school: From here, writing evolves into a tool for deeper thought and communication as students apply OG strategies like structured paragraph organization and advanced syntax. They refine their ability to write essays, research papers, and cross-curricular projects, integrating their skills to express complex ideas with precision and logic.
 With this foundation, high school students will be ready to use writing as a tool for critical thinking and deeper analysis. They will be able to move on to advanced applications of grammar, syntax, and word etymology to aid in writing precision and clarity. More than that, they will have built the confidence to tackle complex assignments like research papers, argumentative essays, and cross-curricular projects—including a structured approach to break down tasks into manageable steps. While many schools have shifted away from traditional writing instruction—replacing handwriting practice and structured composition with technology like typing and speech-to-text tools—The Linder Academy recognizes that mastering the foundational skills of writing, from penmanship to organizing thoughts and crafting arguments, is one of the most essential abilities a child can develop, no matter what their future holds.

Reasoning at Linder integrates math, science, and logical thinking—the foundation for quantitative critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making. These skills help students make connections, analyze information, and approach challenges with confidence and clarity. Guided by the principles of Project 2061—a groundbreaking initiative from the American Association for the Advancement of Sciences—our curriculum fosters true scientific and mathematical literacy, going far beyond rote memorization of math facts or science vocabulary. Using Project 2061 Benchmarks, we emphasize problem-based learning, where students collaborate to solve real-world challenges, test solutions, and assess results, empowering them to engage with and improve the world around them. Early learning: Kindergarteners build reasoning skills through hands-on exploration and foundational math concepts, such as counting, sorting, and pattern recognition. By using manipulatives and visual tools, they connect abstract concepts to real-world applications, preparing them for logical problem-solving.
 Elementary school: Students develop true mathematical reasoning alongside math fact fluency, logic, and probability. They begin to see math as a practical tool for daily life—measuring, estimating, and solving real-world problems. This approach builds confidence and ensures students are equipped for more advanced concepts. Middle school: The focus shifts to pre-Algebra and Algebra, addressing a common stumbling block for many students. More than formulas, we emphasize abstract reasoning, numerical literacy, and challenging content that pushes students to apply math creatively. Through dynamic problem-solving and collaborative projects, they discover the power of math to understand and shape the world.
 High school students with this foundation will be ready for advanced mathematical disciplines like Algebra II, Geometry, Calculus, and Statistics. Students will have learned strategies to tackle complex problems using strategic thinking, mathematical modeling, and real-world applications—such as engineering challenges and data interpretation. By blending mathematical reasoning, problem-solving, and collaboration, Linder’s approach ensures students not only master core concepts but also develop a lifelong love for math and its applications.