Introduction
The Vanguard School of Coconut Grove is a non-profit, clinical school offering an individualized program for students with learning difficulties and/or attention deficits. The school's program is administered by experienced professionals who have an extensive background in handling the special needs faced by these students. The student/teacher ratio is kept low so the staff can concentrate on helping each student develop academically, socially and emotionally. The Vanguard School's goal is to develop the skills necessary for the student to return to a more traditional academic program.The positive atmosphere of The Vanguard School encourages the students to assume their educational responsibilities by allowing them to earn a variety of privileges The faculty is supportive, firm and consistent with the students, giving them praise for what they accomplish..

The Vanguard Curriculum
The Vanguard School has a full academic program, including reading, language arts, math, science, and social studies. Special attention is given to handwriting, physical education, typing, computers, art and music.Students are grouped according to age. Classes are structured, and all assignments are organized so students may proceed at their own pace. Homework is assigned to each student daily. A system of rewards helps to motivate students by giving positive reinforcement for academic work and appropriate behavior. The system provides maximum incentive for students to take responsibility for their actions. Comprehension individualized educational plans (IEP) are developed for each student. All students are evaluated by a reading specialist and placed in a reading program to meet their individual needs.In addition to classroom activities, a number of special events throughout the school year add variety to the students' experiences. Field trips are arranged throughout South Florida, and award trips are also available to those students who qualify by earning points in the school's incentive system. Recent trips included Disney World, TY Park in nearby Broward County, and the Dade County Youth Fair. Other students participation opportunities include a student council, recess challenges, special holiday programs and end of the year award ceremonies. The students also publish a newspaper, The Vanguard Journal, a yearbook, and a creative writing magazine entitled "Quill & Scroll"..

Parent Participation
Vanguard believes that parent participation is a key to successfully motivating and helping students. There are four parent/teacher conferences scheduled each year, and others can be arranged as needed. A comprehensive report detailing the student's progress is sent to parents at the end of each school year. The school has an active parent support association, Vanguardians, which sponsors informative parent programs and school fundraisers.