Fundations is a structured literacy program by Wilson Language Training designed for K-3 students. It focuses on phonics, spelling, handwriting, and reading comprehension using a multisensory approach. Fundations is widely used in schools to build strong foundational literacy skills, particularly for early readers and students with learning differences like dyslexia.

Why HMH & Fundations? The NYC Reads initiative has prompted districts to adopt a unified English Language Arts (ELA) curriculum. This strategic alignment fosters collaborative efforts and promotes the sharing of best practices in teaching foundational reading and writing skills across the city.
In alignment with this initiative, District 27, and consequently PS 45Q, has adopted the HMH (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) curriculum. HMH was selected for its comprehensive approach and strong emphasis on foundational literacy skills, which are better aligned with the principles of the Science of Reading (SOR). For grades K-2, foundational skills remain central to reading instruction within the HMH framework, which also provides engaging and complex fiction and non-fiction texts and concepts. This comprehensive approach aims to address and close achievement gaps among our students.
Why the Shift to Science of Reading (SOR)? To understand the rationale behind this shift, we encourage you to listen to the podcast series 'Sold a Story'.

“Here at PS 45Q, we use the Creative Curriculum exclusively in our 3K and Pre-K classes to promote holistic child development through project-based, hands-on learning that builds your child's academic, social, and emotional skills simultaneously. Our program develops core cognitive abilities like problem-solving and critical thinking while providing daily opportunities to strengthen literacy (including phonological awareness and letter knowledge) and math skills through both direct instruction and child-led activities, all aligned with New York State Common Core standards. We prioritize social-emotional development, helping children manage their feelings, build self-confidence, self-control, and empathy, while learning to relate positively to teachers and peers. By emphasizing play as a fundamental vehicle for learning, we encourage curiosity and foster a lifelong love of learning while developing children across multiple domains—cognitive, social/emotional, physical, and language—rather than focusing on just one area. Our teachers tailor lessons to individual student needs and interests through in-depth projects involving real-world scenarios that seamlessly integrate different subjects. The Creative Curriculum also actively involves families in the learning process, promoting strong school-home connections while respecting each child's individual differences and cultural background.”

Theatre

“Each year, the PS 45Q Theater Program brings together students, teachers, and the arts community for a dazzling, schoolwide production that celebrates creativity, collaboration, and performance. This annual joint arts project showcases our students’ talent through full-scale Disney musical productions, complete with acting, singing, dancing, set design, and technical stagecraft. In 2025, our young performers enchanted audiences with Beauty and the Beast, and preparations are already underway for next year’s production of Aladdin. Special thanks to Ms. Simon, Ms. Duggan, and Ms. Mazdra, whose tireless dedication and artistic vision have transformed the PS 45Q auditorium into a Broadway-quality performance space. Through their leadership, students gain confidence, teamwork, and a lifelong appreciation for the performing arts—making the PS 45Q Theater Program a highlight of our school year.