BLI Learning Labs
School Life: Tarpon Springs and Pinellas Park, Florida
Primary Cohort
The primary class enrolls a maximum of ten students, aged 5-7. Reading and writing instruction is based on the science of reading while math foundations are taught using a personalized multisensory approach. With a 6:1 ratio, we offer an inclusive environment for children with dyslexia or dyscalculia; however, all children thrive under BLI’s model. Students leave the primary cohort with strong number sense and decoding skills and a love of reading and learning.
Quick Facts
- 6:1 student-teacher ratio
- Daily art and music curriculum
- Snack and creative playtime
- Opportunities for parent involvement such as garden helper, mystery reader, and guest expert
- Open-ended learning spaces and activities
Elementary Cohort
The elementary class enrolls a maximum of 12 children, aged 7-10, and emphasizes daily reading, writing, and problem solving through a combination of traditional teacher-led lessons, as well as short student-led projects to facilitate “learning how to learn.”
Quick Facts
- 12:1 student-teacher ratio
- Social Emotional Learning
- Spanish, ELA American History, arithmetic, geography, life, earth, and physical science
- Field experiences
- Gardening
- Enrichment programming in the arts, health, and STEM
Intermediate Cohort
The intermediate cohort enrolls a maximum of 15 children, aged 10-13, and focuses on inquiry-based learning and problem solving, both in the classroom and in the community. Children enter the intermediate cohort proficient in reading, writing, and arithmetic, study traditional middle school subjects, and volunteer at least eight hours per month at a community nonprofit. Examples include food banks, libraries, and senior facilities.
Quick Facts
- 15:1 student-teacher ratio
- Field experiences and apprenticeships for children 14+
- Pre-algebra
- ELA and Creative Writing
- Biology
- World History
- Physical and Earth Science
Secondary Cohort
The secondary cohort enrolls a maximum of 15 students aged 13-18. Students working at the secondary level complete core assignments during the morning hours either independently or with a tutor. Afternoon hours are spent as an apprentice, a BLI TA, or completing dual enrollment coursework in partnership with The University of South Florida.
Quick Facts
- 15:1 student-teacher ratio
- In-person and online classes
- Geometry, Algebra 2, Pre-calculus, Trigonometry, Statistics
- ELA
- US History
- Chemistry
- Biology 2
- Dual enrollment
- Apprenticeships
