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Jump Start

A special place for our youngest students.

Students preparing to enter kindergarten through second grade are welcomed to their own special summer program at Newark Academy.

Our Jump Start program, which features an 8-to-1 ratio of teachers/aides to students, provides young students in grades 1-2 with school readiness, socialization and ample play time. Our Junior Jump Start program helps kindergarteners to develop an understanding of key reading and math concepts, setting them on the path to school readiness and achievement.

Reading Program

 

The Jump Start reading program provides a structured, research-based approach to literacy that meets the needs of diverse learners in grades K-2. It emphasizes comprehension skills, critical thinking, and the development of foundational literacy skills through a range of activities that include reading literature and informational texts, writing, speaking, and listening.

Through scaffolded instruction and complex “anchor texts,” the program challenges students to read deeply and strengthen comprehension and analytical skills. Lessons are designed to promote thoughtful problem-solving, fostering a growth mindset and building confidence in students as they progress academically.

Math Program

 

The Jump Start math program helps students to build core math skills through consistent, short daily practice aimed at reinforcing fact fluency and developing math confidence. Its philosophy centers on the principle of “automaticity,” meaning students can quickly and accurately recall basic math facts with minimal cognitive load.

The program allows for individualized pacing, meaning each student progresses through fundamental topics—like addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, and decimals—based on their readiness. Formal and informal assessments provide immediate feedback and allow teachers to provide differentiated instruction to meet the needs of every learner.


Meet the Director

With a robust foundation in early childhood and special education, along with her credentials as a licensed learning consultant specializing in neurodiversity, Stacey Clark brings expertise and passion to the Jump Start program.

As NA’s full-time Learning Specialist, Stacey's approach, grounded in the constructivist theory, prioritizes experiential learning through dynamic, hands-on activities, social and emotional engagement, and meaningful project-based outcomes.

Please email jumpstart@newarka.edu if you have any further questions.