School is not a therapeutic school. Vanguard provides individualized and differentiated instruction for each student. Differentiation of instruction is accomplished by identifying the performance levels of each student within the construct of curriculum standards for each class. The premise is all lessons begin at the student’s instructional level and move toward mastery of the standards by utilizing specific teaching strategies that will foster student growth and achievement in relation to the required competencies. Incoming students are assessed to identify their reading level. Classes are designed to improve reading fluency through decoding skills, and development of automaticity with respect to the sound-symbol relationships. Once students become more fluent readers, the focus shifts to comprehension strategies specifically designed for students with reading disorders. Language development, technology use, self-management, executive functioning, and social and emotional regulation are supported and addressed as "teachable moments" within The Vanguard School's academic programs. The school also provides assistance with students who struggle with language. There is a Social Skills Communication class available and is taught by a part-time Speech and Language Pathologist. Boarding There are different levels of boarding. Day students live off-campus with their families but commute to the campus for classes. Five-day boarders live on campus during the week but live off-campus during the weekend. Full-time boarding students live on campus seven days a week. Amenities The Vanguard School sits on a 77-acre campus with four dorms, three school buildings, a student center, cafeteria, gym, fitness center, performing arts center, and infirmary with medical staff. There is lake access, private counseling rooms, and a sensory calming room. Remodeled Boys' Dormitories Upgraded Swimming Pool Gymnasium Outdoor Basketball Court Sand Volleyball Court Tennis Courts Fitness Center Performing Arts Center Indoor Theater Student Center Lake Access for Canoeing and Fishing Soccer Field Track for Walking/Jogging/Biking Athletics The Vanguard School is a Division 2A School and a member of the Florida High School Athletic Association. They offer a variety of competitive and intramural sports. Athletes are able to participate in state-sanctioned competitions against area private and public schools. Intramural sports offer another structured avenue for the enjoyment of athletics. Games and tournaments are scheduled throughout the year and are open to all residential and day students. Offered sports are: Tennis Basketball Soccer Golf Swimming Track and Field Cross Country Weightlifting Volleyball Archery References External links Official web site Florida Council of Independent Schools Fact Sheet on Vanguard The Association