Business Details
20 Years
experience
Empowering Students with Language-Based Learning Differences
The Siena School has been empowering students with language-based learning differences since 2006. Founded on the principle of providing a tailored educational experience, we specialize in serving bright, college-bound students who learn differently, particularly those with dyslexia. Our mission is to create an environment where students are deeply understood and equipped with the tools, confidence, and strategies to excel academically and personally. With campuses in Silver Spring and Northern Virginia, our team of expert educators employs multisensory, research-based instruction to address individual learning needs. We prioritize early intervention, self-advocacy skills, and personalized support, ensuring students celebrate their strengths and unlock their full potential.Our graduates have pursued successful careers in engineering, education, entrepreneurship, and the arts, testament to our commitment to transformative education. We believe in fostering a community where students thrive, supported by faculty who recognize their creativity and innovation. Families often find relief and hope here, as their children rediscover a love for learning. As a nationally recognized institution, we continue to expand our programs while maintaining a 10:1 student-teacher ratio to ensure individualized attention.
Services
Elementary Education
Middle School Program
High School College Prep
Summer Enrichment
Tutoring Services
College Counseling
Arts Education
Athletics Programs
Internship Opportunities
Special Education
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We offer individualized instruction tailored to students with dyslexia and language-based learning differences.
- Our faculty includes nationally recognized experts in multisensory teaching methods.
- We guarantee a 10:1 student-teacher ratio for personalized academic support.
- Our graduates consistently gain admission to top colleges and universities.
- We provide comprehensive college counseling and internship programs for grades 9-12.
Associations and certifications
- Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
What people say
Transformative educational experience
Expert faculty
Personalized support
Confidence growth
Successful college preparation
Services
Elementary Education
Our grades 3-4 program focuses on early intervention with multisensory reading instruction and self-advocacy skill development. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention while building foundational academic and social-emotional skills. Students engage in experiential learning that celebrates individual strengths and learning styles.
Middle School Program
Grades 5-8 curriculum combines structured literacy with STEM and humanities subjects. Daily reading classes and science labs emphasize hands-on learning. Students participate in monthly field trips and begin exploring college and career pathways through experiential education.
High School College Prep
Grades 9-12 program offers rigorous college preparatory courses with individualized support. Students complete annual internships, receive ACT/SAT preparation, and benefit from personalized college counseling. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and real-world application of knowledge.
Summer Enrichment
Summer at Siena provides academic reinforcement, sports programs, and enrichment activities. Designed to prevent learning loss, our summer programs maintain engagement through creative projects and physical activities tailored to students' learning differences.
Tutoring Services
Siena Tutors offers virtual one-on-one instruction for grades 3-12. Certified teachers provide targeted support in reading, math, and content areas using multisensory techniques. Sessions focus on building confidence and mastering specific academic skills.
People
Dr. Jilly Darefsky
Executive Head of School
Founder of Siena's leadership team with doctorate in Education from Johns Hopkins. Specializes in dyslexia education and has served on multiple educational association boards. Recognized for outstanding teaching of dyslexic students.
Jennifer Betts
Head of School, Northern Virginia
30+ years in independent school education with Harvard M.Ed. Directed Atlanta's Howard School for dyslexic students. Member of IDA-DC board and Harvard mentor program. Focuses on STEAM and arts program development.
Katie Douglas
Head of School, Silver Spring
16+ years in independent education with GWU masters in special education. Completed Harvard leadership certificate. Advocate for equity in education and believes in nurturing every child's unique potential through differentiated instruction.
Questions
What learning differences does Siena specialize in?
We specialize in serving students with language-based learning differences including dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia. Our program supports students with mild to moderate needs who have average to above-average abilities.
What grades does Siena serve?
We serve grades 3-12 across three campuses: Silver Spring grades 3-4 (Satellite), Silver Spring grades 5-12 (Forest Glen), and Northern Virginia grades 3-12.
Is financial aid available?
Yes, 36% of students receive financial aid with average grants of $7,500-$10,000. We offer need-based scholarships covering up to 75% of tuition.
What college preparation services do you offer?
We provide individualized college counseling, ACT/SAT preparation, internship programs, and college application support. Our graduates have 100% college acceptance rate.
What extracurricular activities are available?
We offer 8 sports teams, performing arts, visual arts, robotics, and after-school enrichment programs. 74% of students participate in at least one sport.
How do you support student transitions?
We provide monthly field trips, annual internships, and transition planning from elementary through high school. Our House system builds community across grade levels.
Videos
Reviews (1)
Joyce Weiss
Oct 06, 2020
Report
Our granddaughter attends your school and has come a long way in her learning since coming there. I enjoyed your zoom presentation today and the chance to see the children in action. Thanks for your good work.
