CURRICULUM OVERVIEW
Structured Literacy
Reading and writing are taught through structured literacy practices, integrating the Science of Reading, writing development, and culturally responsive texts. Whether analyzing novels or writing original pieces, students grow as readers, communicators, and thinkers — empowered to use their voices for impact.
Phonics/Morphology
Explicit phonics instruction is paired with word mapping and morphology to build decoding, fluency, and vocabulary. We teach spelling rules, root words, affixes, and patterns using multisensory techniques, helping students become confident and accurate readers and writers.
Math
We teach math conceptually — not just procedurally. Using our Hayes Math Block and WGI Model™, students build deep number sense, explore real-world problems, and use manipulatives and visuals to bring math to life. From fluency to reasoning, we meet every learner where they are and stretch them toward mastery.
Writing
Writing is taught through a structured, process-based approach focused on clarity, organization, and voice. Grounded in the Hochman Method, students write across genres, connect writing to their lives and learning, and grow into purposeful communicators.
Social Studies
At DHEAI, Social Studies is more than memorizing dates — it's about understanding identity, community, and systems. We explore history through multiple perspectives, connect civics to real-world issues, and empower students to become active thinkers and global citizens. Through Project-Based Learning, students investigate the past to build a better future.
Science
Science at DHEAI is hands-on, minds-on. From life cycles to engineering design, students explore scientific phenomena through inquiry, labs, and real-world connections. Grounded in STEM principles and critical thinking, science isn’t just a subject — it’s a way to question, test, and discover how the world works.
Our Innovative Time:
Enrichment Block
This daily block is where curiosity meets creativity. Students dive into monthly thematic units that blend STEM, literacy, social studies, and art into meaningful, hands-on projects.
Whether building prototypes, publishing zines, or planning community initiatives, students lead with inquiry and create with purpose. This is where our STEAM and PBL approach shines.
✔ Project-Based Learning
✔ Engineering & Design Thinking
✔ Creative Writing, Visual Arts, & Performing Arts
✔ Real-World Service Projects
✔ Genius Hour-style Exploration
This isn’t an “extra.” It’s the heart of how we make learning stick.
Movement & Music
We believe movement fuels learning. Instead of traditional P.E., students participate in a daily Motion & Meditation Block — a mix of outdoor play, movement-based games, yoga-inspired mindfulness, and student-led activities that support self-regulation, focus, and joy.
These sessions balance the rigor of academic learning with the rest kids actually need.
✔ Indoor/Outdoor Mixed Movement
✔ Brain Breaks with Purpose
✔ Guided Breathing & Mindfulness
✔ Whole-Group Games, Creative Play, and Student-Led Fun
It’s all part of our commitment to nurturing the body, brain, and heart.
OUR SIGNATURE METHOD:
HAYES METHOD & FRAMEWORK
Our Curriculum: Rooted in The Hayes Method™
At Dr. Hayes Educates Academy of Innovation (DHEAI), we do not adopt boxed curriculum. Every lesson is created, crafted, and curated by Dr. Alisha A. Hayes, Ed.D., a curriculum expert and developer of the published Hayes Method™, a comprehensive, research-based instructional framework designed for diverse learners.
Our instructional blocks are mastery-based, multi-sensory, and rooted in real-world learning. We intentionally incorporate research-based strategies from trusted programs, but only as complements—not replacements—for our proprietary design.
HAYES Literacy Block™
Structured literacy instruction grounded in the Science of Reading, combining decoding, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension with writing to learn.
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Our literacy instruction follows Hayes Reading Block: Read It, Own It™, integrated with:
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HAYES Phonics Playground™ (Grades K–2)
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HAYES Phonics Fusion™ (Grades 3–5)
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Write Like You Mean It™ writing framework
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Inspired by: Orton-Gillingham, Scarborough’s Reading Rope, and The Writing Revolution (Hochman Method)
HAYES Math in Motion™
A conceptual, inquiry-based math experience grounded in real-world application, visual modeling, and guided discourse.
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Structured through the HAYES Structured Math Block™, using:
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Math journals, games, small-group instruction, and hands-on tools
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Real-world problem solving and math talk
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Inspired by: Illustrative Mathematics, Bruner’s Spiral Curriculum, and Cognitively Guided Instruction (CGI)
Our Curriculum, cont.d
HAYES Inquiry Lab™ (Science & STEM)
Students explore science through NGSS-aligned, project-based investigations, STEM builds, and real-world design challenges.
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Delivered through HAYES STEM Explorers™, integrating:
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Thematic units
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Cross-curricular projects
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Engineering design cycles
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Inspired by: Mystery Science and Project-Based Learning frameworks
HAYES Heritage & Humanities™ (Social Studies)
An interdisciplinary social studies curriculum combining history, civics, and cultural literacy through simulations, debates, and storytelling.
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Includes historical simulations, primary source analysis, and student-led projects
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Inspired by: Kids Discover, History Alive!, and C3 Framework principles
HAYES Executive Function Lab™
Explicit teaching of time management, organization, self-regulation, and planning skills embedded across the curriculum.
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Students use visual schedules, trackers, and task-planning tools
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Integrated into daily routines, reading journals, and math reflections
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Inspired by: Executive function research, 360 Thinking strategies, and universal design principles
HAYES Creative Core™ (STEAM & Enrichment)
Hands-on enrichment through design thinking, performance, public speaking, and entrepreneurship—all aligned with academic goals.
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Includes: Sewing, Art, Debate, Music, MakerSpace, and Innovation Showcases
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Inspired by: MakerEd, Design Thinking for Educators, and arts integration models
Why It Matters
Every instructional block is built with:
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Multi-age grouping
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Mastery-based learning
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Performance-based assessment
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Student voice, inquiry, and reflection
We serve students who are gifted, twice-exceptional, neurodivergent, or simply need an approach that values thinking over compliance.
CHARACTER ED & EXECUTIVE FUNCTION STRATEGIES FAITH INFUSED
At Dr. Hayes Educates Academy of Innovation (DHEAI), we believe that character development is just as important as academics. Our Faith-Infused Character Education program is designed to help students grow into compassionate, resilient, and Christ-like leaders who are prepared for success in school and in life.
Our approach integrates faith-based lessons, executive function coaching, and practical, real-world application — ensuring that every child learns not only what it means to be a good student, but also what it means to be a kind, thoughtful, and empowered human being.
What We Use
Our Faith-Infused Character Education program is built on a strong foundation of trusted, research-based resources:
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Kids of Integrity: Faith-based lessons that build Christ-like character and leadership skills.
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Ninja Life Hacks: Engaging stories and activities that teach social-emotional skills, self-regulation, and problem-solving.
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Executive Function Strategies: Activities and coaching that help students develop planning, organization, and perseverance.
We believe that developing strong character is essential for every child — and we’re committed to helping every student grow into a confident, capable, and Christ-like leader.
S.T.E.A.M.+ P.B.L.
At HAI, S.T.E.M. + PBL isn’t an add-on — it’s a core part of how we teach, learn, and grow. Students don’t just memorize facts. They build, design, question, test, and innovate.
What Is STEAM + PBL at HAI?
Our program blends science, technology, engineering, art, and math with project-based learning rooted in real-world application and critical thinking. Whether they’re solving problems, building prototypes, or conducting investigations — students are engaged at every level.
What Does Learning Looks Like?
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Real-World Challenges:
Students design water filters, prototype inventions, solve community problems, and present solutions. -
Hands-On Labs:
STEM isn’t just paper and pencil. We use tools, tech, coding kits, circuits, building materials, and more — right in our labs or from home with guided plans. -
Cross-Disciplinary Learning:
A single project might include reading scientific articles, writing persuasive letters, applying math, and building a working model. It’s messy in the best way. -
Small Group & Independent Exploration:
Learners work collaboratively and independently based on interest, learning style, and project goals.
DAILY INNOVATION TIME
Unlimited Possibility
At DHEAI, Innovation Time happens every day, whether students are learning in-person or online. It’s a protected block for creativity, critical thinking, and real-world application — where students drive their own learning and bring ideas to life.
Student-Led Projects
Learners pursue topics they’re passionate about — from designing games to launching mini-businesses, building inventions, or writing books.
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Hands-On Challenges
Through design thinking and maker-centered learning, students build, test, revise, and reflect on their process. -
Creative Expression
Innovation Time includes space for coding, sewing, engineering builds, digital media, art, and anything that merges curiosity with creation. -
Daily Ownership
Whether on campus or working remotely, students use Innovation Time to explore, research, create, and grow — with support from their teacher.
Innovation isn’t a subject. It’s a mindset. And we nurture it every single day.
Skills We Grow
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Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
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Collaboration & Communication
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Time Management & Planning
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Perseverance & Creativity
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Scientific Inquiry & Mathematical Reasoning
STEAM + PBL at DHEAI builds thinkers, doers, and leaders.
Because our students aren’t just preparing for the future — they’re already creating it.
CURRICULUM FOUNDATION
The HAYES Method™: Grounded in Research. Designed for Real Learning.At Dr. Hayes Educates Academy of Innovation, our approach to teaching and learning is rooted in what works—and what lasts. The HAYES Method™ draws from the most trusted educational research to create a dynamic, inquiry-based environment where students learn by doing, thinking, and exploring.
Built on Proven Learning Theories:
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Constructivism (Piaget): Students build knowledge through hands-on discovery and real-world problem-solving.
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Social Learning (Vygotsky): Learning is social. Peer collaboration and teacher guidance fuel growth.
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Spiral Curriculum (Bruner): Key concepts are revisited throughout the year, deepening understanding over time.
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The Writing Revolution (Hochman): Clear writing reflects clear thinking—across all subjects.
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Science of Reading (Scarborough): Explicit phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension are taught with purpose.
✨ What Makes the HAYES Method™ Unique:
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Inquiry-Based Learning: Students explore real questions and discover answers through projects and activities.
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Cross-Curricular Integration: Lessons are themed and connected across subjects for deeper meaning.
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Multi-Sensory Instruction: Learning comes to life through visuals, movement, discussion, and hands-on tasks.
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Student Ownership: Kids reflect, explain, and take the lead in their learning journey.
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Authentic Assessment: Portfolios, presentations, and performance tasks replace rote memorization.
Instructional Framework:
The HAYES Method™
Instructional Framework: The HAYES Method™
At DHEAI, learning is hands-on, brain-based, and purpose-driven. Our two-day hybrid program is powered by The HAYES Method™, a signature framework grounded in research and innovation. Built on four pillars—Community, Cognitive Scaffolding, Critical Thinking, and Creativigity (creativity + cognitive agility)—our approach ensures every child is seen, supported, and stretched.
Our curriculum includes:
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Structured Literacy using Orton-Gillingham principles and CKLA
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Conceptual Math with Illustrative Mathematics
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Executive Function Coaching woven into daily practice
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Systematic Writing Instruction using The Hochman Method
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STEM Integration & Project-Based Learning across subjects
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Faith & Character Development through Kids of Integrity and Ninja Life Hacks
We don’t do busywork. We build thinkers, doers, and leaders.
Because structure and creativity don’t have to be opposites—they’re both essential to real learning.
We Don’t Just Teach Students—We Accept Them. All of Them.
We keep it personal, intentional, and community-centered.
Enrollment at DHEAI is not just about filling a seat. It’s a commitment—on both sides—to nurture, challenge, and support your child in a way that traditional schools rarely can.
WHAT MAKES THIS HYBRID HOMESCHOOL PROGRAM WORTH IT?
You’re not paying for worksheets, discipline charts, or packed classrooms.
You’re investing in:
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Personalized learning for your actual child—not an imaginary “average” student
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A teacher who adapts and builds around your child’s strengths and struggles
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A school that doesn’t punish kids for how they process, move, or express
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A team that sees behavior as communication—not something to fix
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A community that celebrates identity, culture, and neurodiversity every single day
At DHEAI, we welcome the whole child.
And we don’t just say it. We prove it—every day, in every lesson.
OUR STUDENTS LEARN DIFFERENTLY
—AND THAT'S THE POINT
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They don’t sit still for hours.
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They ask big questions.
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They process through movement, touch, talking, drawing
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They get overwhelmed in crowds or lost in big classrooms.
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They need more time—or more challenge—than a grade level can define.
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At DHEAI, they’re not labeled. They’re understood.
WHAT OUR FAMILIES VALUE
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A close-knit classroom community (max 10-15 students)
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Patient, licensed educators who know how to reach every learner
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A personalized plan—not a cookie-cutter curriculum
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A school-home partnership that respects each family’s rhythm and culture
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A place where their child is safe, seen, and supported
THIS SCHOOL WAS
BUILT FOR YOUR CHILD!
At HAI, we welcome the whole child.
And we don’t
just say it.
We prove it—every day,
in every lesson.
