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Stay informed about Cornerstone Charter School’s committee meetings. View schedules, agendas, and updates as we build a strong, transparent public school. Committees Dedication. Expertise. Passion. Cornerstone’s Board of Trustees works through standing committees to ensure strong governance, oversight, and community engagement. Committees may include both trustees and community members who bring valuable expertise and perspective. Below you’ll find the committees, their members, and the regular schedule of meetings. Committee meetings are open to the public unless otherwise noted. Development & Fundraising Committee Builds philanthropic partnerships and oversees fundraising efforts to support Cornerstone’s mission. Trustee Members: Alex DesRuisseaux, Chair Adam Bristol Lynne Howard Lindsay Wadleigh Community Members: Governance & Compliance Committee Recruits and develops board members, reviews policies, and ensures compliance with laws and bylaws. Trustee Members: Frank Perotti , Chair Lynne Howard Lindsay Wadleigh Community Members: Student Achievement & Curriculum Committee Guides academic priorities, curriculum adoption, and monitoring of student outcomes. Trustee Members: Maura Hart, Chair Hollace Bristol Lynne Howard Community Members: Kim Pheonix Martha Evans Facilities & Operations Committee Manages the school building, safety, and operational systems to ensure a healthy learning environment. Trustee Members: Adam Bristol, Chair Rebecca Owens Community Members: Marketing & Enrollment Committee Leads outreach, branding, and student recruitment to grow and sustain enrollment. Trustee Members: Lindsay Wadleigh, Chair Lynne Howard Community Members: Technology Committee Plans and oversees technology systems that support instruction, operations, and data security. Trustee Members: Adam Bristol Community Members: Finance Committee Oversees budget planning, financial reporting, and compliance with state and federal requirements. Trustee Members: Rebecca Owens, Chair Lynne Howard Community Members: Personnel & Hiring Committee Supports recruitment, selection, and evaluation of staff to ensure Cornerstone attracts and retains excellent educators. Trustee Members: TBD Community Members: COMMITTEE DATE & TIME LOCATION MEETING INFO DOCUMENTS Fundraising/Marketing Combined 3/12/26, 8:00 PM Online MEETING LINK Passcode: 810432 NOTICE AGENDA MINUTES Curriculum 3/5/26, 8:20 PM Online MEETING LINK Passcode: 462036 NOTICE AGENDA MINUTES Fundraising/Marketing Combined 2/26/26, 9:00 PM Online MEETING LINK Passcode: 810432 NOTICE AGENDA MINUTES Curriculum 2/19/26, 8:20 PM Online MEETING LINK Passcode: 462036 NOTICE AGENDA MINUTES Fundraising & Marketing Combined 2/12/26, 9:00 PM Online MEETING LINK Passcode: 810432 NOTICE AGENDA MINUTES Curriculum 2/5/26, 8:20 PM Online MEETING LINK Passcode: 462036 NOTICE AGENDA MINUTES Fundraising & Marketing Combined 1/22/26, 9:00 PM Online MEETING LINK Passcode: 810432 NOTICE AGENDA MINUTES Curriculum 1/15/26, 8:20 PM Online MEETING LINK Passcode: 462036 NOTICE AGENDA MINUTES Curriculum 12/18/25, 8:20 PM Online MEETING LINK Passcode: 462036 NOTICE AGENDA MINUTES Fundraising & Marketing Combined 12/15/25, 10:00 PM Online MEETING LINK Passcode: 354294 NOTICE AGENDA MINUTES Curriculum 11/16/25, 8:00 PM Online MEETING LINK Passcode: 462036 NOTICE AGENDA MINUTES Curriculum 9/18/25, 7:00 PM Online MEETING LINK Passcode: 462036 NOTICE AGENDA MINUTES Marketing & Enrollment 8/21/25, 2:00 PM Online MEETING LINK Passcode: NOTICE AGENDA MINUTES Curriculum 8/5/25, 1:00 PM Online MEETING LINK Passcode: 462036 NOTICE AGENDA MINUTES Curriculum 7/10/25, 3:00 PM Online MEETING LINK Passcode: 462036 NOTICE AGENDA MINUTES

Cornerstone Chartered Public School in Lebanon, NH, is a literacy-focused public charter school that offers the Orton-Gillingham Approach for literacy development, along with an integrated, knowledge-building, project-based curriculum to build strong readers, thinkers, and leaders. A New Hampshire Chartered Public School in Lebanon, NH Serving K-8 Students in the Upper Valley A Literacy-First Education That Gives You Peace of Mind READ OUR CASE FOR SUPPORT Every great education begins with reading Our Vision To shape a future where all children rise with the power of literacy. Our Mission To empower children in New Hampshire's Upper Valley to become strong readers, thinkers, and leaders with an equitable, free, literacy-first public education. The Stakes are High Do you know how your child is being taught to read and whether it's backed by research? Do you worry that your child is not getting the kind of education they need to truly thrive? You are right to be concerned because our nation is experiencing a literacy crisis - Not all children are thriving in traditional schools! Only 36% of NH 4th graders were proficient readers in 2024. According to the National Council on Teacher Quality, just 25% of teacher training programs address all five components of scientifically based reading instruction. The report reveals that nearly 40% of reading programs promote practices contrary to research. Without solid reading skills, children cannot access learning or develop strong thinking skills. We can help! We give you a choice because charter schools are free for all NH students.* We give you peace of mind, knowing that Cornerstone is mission-driven to provide Orton-Gillingham instruction specifically designed for how the brain learns to read. You can be assured that your child will receive a well-rounded education resting on a foundation of literacy, so they can build knowledge and critical thinking. You are part of our community - we are small and flexible and able to quickly and efficiently meet the needs of students and families. Finding the Right Fit For Your Child We understand it is hard to know whom to trust when making educational decisions for your child, and it's hard to make a change once your child has started school. But you don't have to do it alone. We've got your back. OUR TRUSTEES Our seasoned team of professionals has decades of teaching and leadership experience that you can rely on. STERN CENTER Our teachers are trained by the Stern Center for Language and Learning and certified in scientifically-based reading instruction. APPLICATION PROCESS We guide you through the application and admissions process to make the transition smooth and easy for you and your child. *Out of state students are welcome on a tuition basis as space allows. Praise for our Founder and Director "Lynne's deep understanding of evidence-based literacy instruction, combined with her empathy, insight, and dedication to students, make her a stand out." ~Peggy Price, Director of the Orton-Gillingham Institute at the Stern Center for Language and Learning "What stands out is Lynne’s unwavering passion for literacy and her belief that every child can learn to read with the right support. I’m so inspired by her vision for Cornerstone Charter School and excited for the many students and families who will benefit from her leadership and heart." ~Jessica Austin, Parent Join Our Mailing List First name* Last name* Email* Phone Choose all that apply. * I am a parent interested in enrolling my child(ren). I am interested in supporting Cornerstone. I am an educator interested in a position at the school. I am interested in serving on the board or on a committee. I would like a call. How did you learn about Cornerstone? * We’d love to hear from you! Share any other thoughts or questions here — or let us know if you’d like to schedule a quick call.* Yes, add me to the mailing list. * Submit

Explore all the ways to donate to Cornerstone Charter School—cash gifts, DAFs, crypto, stocks, assets, and more. Support our mission to build strong readers and thinkers. Ways to Donate Laying the Cornerstone for our Children's Future READ OUR CASE FOR SUPPORT With your generous support, we’re building a school and a future where every child becomes a strong reader, a curious thinker, and a courageous leader. At Cornerstone Chartered Public School, every donation plays a vital role in empowering children to achieve their full potential through the transformative power of literacy. We are proud to offer a public, tuition-free education firmly anchored in decades of reading research. Donate today to make a lasting difference in the lives of our children! We make it easy! Cornerstone is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Our tax ID is 33-4632957. Click on the images below to learn more! ONE-TIME OR RECURRING CASH GIFTS REAL ESTATE DONOR-ADVISED FUNDS (DAF) STOCKS & MUTUAL FUNDS RETIREMENT ASSETS LIFE INCOME PLANS & CHARITABLE TRUSTS TANGIBLE PERSONAL PROPERTY CRYPTOCURRENCY WILLS & BEQUESTS Key Areas of Investment Heart Cornerstone is fortunate to partner with Rick Peck, a trusted philanthropic advisor, who provides strategic counsel to strengthen our mission and support our long-term success. Visit thephilanthropyguy.com to learn more about Rick.

Building the Foundation Creating with Intention Cornerstone Charter School is being built with intention, both in its physical design and in the learning it will support. This page shares updates and photos as our school home takes shape, reflecting our commitment to transparency, community, and thoughtful planning. We invite you to follow along as Cornerstone’s foundation is built. Our school is located at 325 Mt. Support Rd. in Lebanon, NH. January 2026 The Work Has Begun! Demolition is officially underway, and it is exciting to see this building begin to open up. The upstairs is now complete, and about half of the downstairs has been finished as well. Walls are coming down to make way for big, bright classrooms, a multipurpose community room, and a large library that will sit at the heart of the school. This phase of demolition will wrap up next week, and construction will follow shortly after. Each step brings us closer to creating a space designed with intention, one that supports learning, connection, and community. Upstairs - future 4th & 5th grade classrooms Downstairs - looking toward the future kindergarten classroom Upstairs - hallway December 2025 Plans are Finalized! We are excited to share an important milestone in the development of Cornerstone Charter School: the school’s design has been finalized. We have been working closely with Banwell Architects to design a space that reflects Cornerstone’s mission, values, and instructional priorities. The first floor of the school will include four bright, sunny classrooms, designed to support focused learning and strong relationships. At the heart of the building will be a large community room, intended for whole-school gatherings, family events, and community use, reinforcing our belief that schools should serve as centers of connection. Our Future Community Room Walls Marked for Demo! The first floor will also include space for unified arts classes and performances, along with administrative offices, a nurse’s office, and a large library that will serve as a central hub for reading, learning, and inquiry. Each space has been thoughtfully planned to support both academic learning and a strong sense of belong. With the design now complete, demolition of the existing office space will begin soon, allowing us to move into the next phase of building out Cornerstone’s school home. We look forward to sharing progress as this exciting work continues and as the vision for our school becomes a physical reality.

Cornerstone’s literacy-first approach is rooted in the Orton-Gillingham Approach. Students build strong foundational skills—phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension—so every child becomes a confident, capable reader. The Truth About Learning to Read We know better - It's time to do better! The human brain is not hardwired for reading. Children learn to speak naturally by hearing oral language. The same is not true for reading. The brain must repurpose existing structures as it learns to read. Learn More Prevailing approaches to literacy instruction are inconsistent with research. Balanced literacy, guided reading, 3-cueing system, readers' and writers' workshop are not based on the science of reading. Learn More 10-20% of the population is affected by dyslexia. Dyslexia is the most common learning disability. It is often misunderstood, and our schools are ill equipped to provide appropriate instruction for dyslexic students. Learn More Without explicit and systematic phonics, many children won't ever learn to read very well. Experts say, and the data shows, that some kids will learn to read despite the lack of effective instruction. Equity in education means that we do right by all children. Learn More Featured Blog Post Reading Programs: Questions Parents Should Ask Choosing a school is one of the biggest decisions a family makes. Asking the right questions helps. Choosing a school is one of the biggest decisions a family makes, and for many parents, reading instruction sits right at the center of that choice. Reading is the gateway to everything else children learn. When it’s going well, school feels manageable. When it’s not, everything feels harder. The challenge is that nearly every school will say they “teach reading well.” So how c Lynne Howard What is the Orton-Gillingham Approach, and Why Does it Work for All Students? The Orton-Gillingham Approach works for all students because it aligns with how the brain learns to read. We don't have to rely on philosophy or long-held beliefs about how to teach reading. We have decades of science to inform our instruction. Lynne Howard

Cornerstone Chartered Public School empowers children in the Upper Valley with a literacy-first public education that implements the Orton-Gillingham Approach, offering families a high-quality choice that builds strong readers, critical thinkers, and future leaders. The Cornerstone Difference We know better - It's time to do better! Science-Based Literacy Instruction for all Students The Orton-Gillingham Approach is a direct, explicit, sequential, multi-sensory, structured way to teach foundational literacy skills, aligned with how everyone learns to read. It is essential for some and beneficial for all! Learn More Innovative Grouping We use Primary Learning Communities rather than traditional age-based grade assignments to best meet students educational and developmental needs. Learn More Orton-Gillingham Certified Teachers All teachers are trained and certified by the Orton-Gillingham Academy at the Classroom Educator Level or above. Learn More Social-Emotional Support We use the Equitable Learning Environments Framework to ensure equity and help students develop positive behaviors. Learn More Knowledge-Building, NH Aligned Curriculum We build students' capacity for three dimensions of high achievement: Mastery of Knowledge and Skills, Character, and High-Quality Student Work. Learn More Data-Based Decision Making We use screening tools and diagnostic assessments within a Multi-tiered Systems of Support framework (MTSS) to provide students with exactly what they need. Learn More Supported Teachers We invest in our teachers! We provide in-class observations and instructional coaching by a OGA Fellow or Clinical Supervisor for all teachers. Learn More Parent & Community Involvement Students benefit when all stakeholders work together. We eagerly invite parents and community members to be involved. Learn More Featured Blog Post What are Primary Learning Communities? Designing Elementary School Around How Children Grow At Cornerstone, we believe school structures should reflect how children actually grow and develop. In the primary grades especially, children do not grow in neat, linear ways. Their academic, social, and emotional development unfolds at different rates and in different rhythms. Traditional grade-level systems assume that children of the same age are ready for the same expectations, pace, and routines at the same time. In reality, that structure can unintentionally leave some Lynne Howard

Frequently asked questions Frequently Asked Questions Cornerstone School FAQs Charter School FAQs Literacy FAQs Is Cornerstone Charter School free to attend? Yes. Cornerstone Charter School is a tuition-free public school for New Hampshire residents. Out-of-state students may be eligible to attend with tuition, in accordance with New Hampshire charter school law. What grades will Cornerstone Charter School serve? Cornerstone Charter School will open with grades K–3 for the 2026-2027 school year. This intentional focus allows us to build strong instructional systems and a solid foundation in literacy from the very start. We plan to grow one grade level at a time as students move through the school. Our long-term vision is to serve students through middle school. Why is Cornerstone starting with K-3 only? The early elementary years are when foundational literacy skills are developed and when the right instruction can have the greatest long-term impact. By starting with K–3, we can ensure: • Consistent, high-quality instruction • Strong intervention systems • Well-supported educators • A stable, coherent school culture This approach allows Cornerstone to grow responsibly while maintaining the quality families expect. Do you accept students in grades beyond K-3? Not at this time. Cornerstone is currently enrolling students in grades K–3 only. Families interested in future grades are invited to complete our Future Grades Interest Form (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdWbbzdoTvSqHaTtjR2b703AH4W4zm4z6P_llPJJpuY7kS9lw/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=104035251971347233403)so we can stay in touch and share updates as the school grows. Do you offer a way for families with preschool-aged children to express interest in future enrollment? Yes. Families with preschool-aged children who are interested in future kindergarten enrollment at Cornerstone are invited to complete our Future Kindergarten Interest Form.(https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScMQi7_-SXHTCKkAl2YaLteQhp0ggoNwqwA6Y__6TgobvVtpQ/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=104035251971347233403) (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScMQi7_-SXHTCKkAl2YaLteQhp0ggoNwqwA6Y__6TgobvVtpQ/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=104035251971347233403) Submitting this form does not guarantee enrollment or a future spot, but it allows us to stay in touch, share updates, and provide information as your child approaches kindergarten age and as the school grows. How are Cornerstone teachers prepared to teach reading, writing, and spelling? All Cornerstone teachers are trained in the Orton-Gillingham approach and receive ongoing professional learning and instructional coaching. Teacher preparation is continuous and deeply focused on literacy development. Teachers are supported in: 1. Understanding how reading develops 2. Using spelling and writing to strengthen reading and comprehension 3. Adjusting instruction based on student needs 4. Identifying when students need additional support or greater challenge This depth of preparation allows teachers to respond thoughtfully and confidently to a wide range of learners. Do you teach subjects beyond literacy? Yes. While strong literacy instruction is foundational at Cornerstone, our program is not limited to reading and writing. Cornerstone offers a content-rich, well-rounded elementary education that includes: • Reading, writing, and language development • Mathematics • Science • Social studies • Social-emotional learning As students build strong literacy skills, they apply them across subject areas through project-based learning. Our content areas are intentionally integrated, allowing students to read, write, think, and problem-solve in meaningful, real-world contexts. Literacy is the foundation that allows students to fully access and engage with all areas of learning, while project-based learning deepens understanding, curiosity, and critical thinking. What will a day of learning at Cornerstone look like? While no two days are exactly the same, our schedule is intentionally designed to provide consistency, purpose, and meaningful learning. Literacy is the foundation of our school day. Students receive explicit reading and writing instruction and then use those skills across subjects to build knowledge, ask questions, and think deeply about what they are learning. When students are strong readers and writers, they are better able to engage with new ideas, even when learning feels challenging. Each day includes predictable routines, whole-class instruction, small-group learning, and targeted support or enrichment based on student needs. Teachers use data and daily observation to guide instruction and support productive struggle, ensuring that every student continues to grow. Students also engage in authentic learning opportunities that invite them to solve problems, explore their interests, and create meaningful projects. Strong relationships and a sense of belonging are central to learning at Cornerstone, and social-emotional skills are intentionally woven throughout the day. Daily outdoor time and unified arts classes, including music, art, and physical education, support students’ well-being, creativity, and critical thinking. Our goal is simple: to make every school day purposeful, engaging, and joyful. If you don’t see your question answered here, please reach out. We’re happy to help!

Cornerstone Chartered Public School empowers children in the Upper Valley with a literacy-first public education that implements the Orton-Gillingham Approach, offering families a high-quality choice that builds strong readers, critical thinkers, and future leaders. Our Mission & Vision Clarity in Purpose Creates Power in Action. MISSION Empowering children in the Upper Valley through a literacy-first public education, and offering families a high-quality choice that builds strong readers, critical thinkers, and future leaders. Our Story VISION Shaping the future where all children rise with the power of literacy.

Apply to Cornerstone Charter School. Learn about open enrollment, lottery details, and how to secure a spot in our free, public, literacy-first K–8 school. The Application & Enrollment Process APPLY NOW 1 Complete an Application Our Open Enrollment Period for the 2026-2027 school year is December 1 - February 28. If applications exceed available spaces, a blind lottery will be conducted no later than April 15. Applications will be accepted after February 28 according to rolling-admissions procedures. Please see ADM-01 Policy under Board of Trustees tab for full details. Click here for information for out-of-state families . *If you require a paper copy of the application or translation/interpretation assistance, please email us at [email protected] . APPLY NOW 2 Meet with the Director or Attend an Information Session We want to get to know you and your student so we can begin to prepare their personalized learning journey! Meet with our Executive Director, Lynne Howard, or come to one of our information sessions. Stay tuned for the date of our next Family Information Session! REGISTER 3 Sign a Commitment to Attend & Complete Enrollment Forms Once your child is accepted to the school, sign a Commitment to Attend and complete our enrollment forms. Request records from present school, if applicable. Click here to check the school calendar for important dates. Stay tuned for Orientation and Open House dates! Make sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn and join our mailing list . Non-Discrimination Notice Cornerstone complies with all federal and state laws regarding equal access and nondiscrimination. In accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA), our application packets will not inquire about disability status to ensure that students with disabilities are not discriminated against. Admission is not based on academic performance, ability, or background. Cornerstone does not use entrance exams, interviews, or academic screening as part of the application or admission process. Every child has an equal opportunity to attend. Thank you for your interest in applying to Cornerstone Chartered Public School. Interested in Future Enrollment? While Cornerstone is currently enrolling students in grades K–3, we know many families are planning ahead. Families with preschool-aged children or children in older grades are invited to share their interest so we can stay in touch as the school grows. Future Kindergarten Interest Form Future Grades Interest Form Out-of-State Information for Out-of-State Families Cornerstone Chartered Public School welcomes families from neighboring states who are seeking a strong, literacy-focused education. While New Hampshire residents receive tuition-free enrollment, families residing outside of New Hampshire are welcome to apply under the following guidelines: Eligibility & Admission Students who reside outside New Hampshire may apply for admission. Out-of-state applicants are not eligible to participate in the lottery. Out-of-state students may be added to the waitlist behind all New Hampshire residents. If space remains available in a grade level after all New Hampshire students have been admitted, out-of-state students may be offered enrollment on a tuition basis. Final determination of available seats for out-of-state students will be made by June 1 preceding the school year. Out-of-state students are held to the same academic and behavioral expectations as New Hampshire students. Tuition Out-of-state students are not eligible for tuition-free enrollment. For the 2026–2027 school year, the Board of Trustees has set tuition at: $16,000 per pupil per year As part of our inaugural year, Cornerstone is offering a $2,000 discount, bringing tuition to: $14,000 per pupil for 2026–2027 Families enrolling more than one child will receive a $1,500 sibling discount. Tuition rates are reviewed annually by the Board of Trustees and are posted on the school’s website.

Discover Cornerstone Charter School’s story—our mission, why we were founded, and how we’re building a literacy-first public school for NH students. Our Story Built on Evidence and Guided by Experience. Who are we? Cornerstone Chartered Public School (CCPS) is a literacy-focused, tuition-free, open-enrollment public charter school serving New Hampshire’s Upper Valley. Opening for grades K–3 in September 2026, CCPS will grow one grade level annually to ultimately serve students in grades K–8, becoming the only charter school of its kind in the area. Why a charter school? Charter schools are tuition-free, mission-driven public schools. They provide a range of options so parents, of any means, can choose the school that best fits their child's needs. Charter schools level the playing field for children with learning differences or special interests. What funding sources do we currently have? We have been awarded a Charter School Program (CSP) Grant, which will provide essential start-up funding. In addition, we are actively pursuing donations and exploring fundraising opportunities to further support our launch and growth. Why are we here? Illiteracy is a silent epidemic all across our country. Too many children are not learning to read or write proficiently. But here's the good news: Research shows that 95% of children can learn to read by the end of first grade with the right kind of instruction. We know better, so we must do better. Cornerstone is prepared and committed to meeting this challenge head-on What are our goals? Empowering children in the Upper Valley through a literacy-first public education, offering families a high-quality choice that builds strong readers, critical thinkers, and future leaders. What is our timeline for the school? Cornerstone received its charter approval from the NH Board of Education in January 2025. Since that time, we have received our non-profit 501(c)(3) status and established a highly skilled and diverse Board of Trustees. Cornerstone will open its doors in September 2026 for kindergarten - grade 3. Featured Blog Post Strong Literacy, Rich Learning: What to Expect at Cornerstone Peer collaboration builds skills like communication, leadership, and conflict resolution, while fostering deeper learning, diverse perspectives, and increased student motivation. As families learn more about Cornerstone Public Charter School, we often hear thoughtful questions about what the school day will actually look like for children. Parents want to know not only about our focus on literacy, but about the full learning experience. These are important questions, and we’ Lynne Howard

Cornerstone Charter School’s curriculum blends Orton-Gillingham literacy instruction, project-based learning, and NH standards to support all learners. Cornerstone's Curriculum Building with intention. Growing with purpose. Meet Dr. Maura Hart Maura is a longtime educator and school improvement leader with over 35 years of experience supporting equitable, evidence-based instruction. She currently works with schools and districts nationwide through the SWIFT Education Center at the University of Kansas, helping teams implement Multi-Tiered Systems of Support and strong instructional practices. Maura brings deep expertise, thoughtful leadership, and a shared commitment to Cornerstone’s vision of ensuring all children rise with the power of literacy. Cornerstone's Curriculum Building with intention. Growing with purpose. At Cornerstone Chartered Public School, curriculum development is an ongoing, thoughtful process grounded in our mission and values. Mission: To empower children in the Upper Valley to become strong readers, thinkers, and leaders. Vision: To shape a future where all children rise with the power of literacy. This page shares regular updates on our curriculum work so families, donors, and community members can see how we are building a strong foundation for student learning. Our Curriculum Priorities Our curriculum design is guided by: Educational Equity – ensuring every child receives the instruction and support they need to thrive Innovation – combining proven methods with forward-thinking instruction Collaboration – recognizing that students succeed when educators, families, and communities work together Growth – supporting continuous learning for students and educators All curriculum work is aligned with New Hampshire State Standards and designed to build knowledge intentionally across grade levels. What We’re Building Structured Literacy (Orton-Gillingham aligned) as the foundation for reading and writing instruction Content-rich, integrated learning across literacy, science, and social studies Collaborative Project-Based Learning experiences that allow students to apply learning in meaningful ways A Curriculum Playbook to support teachers with clear expectations, instructional practices, and coherence across classrooms Strong systems of support through Multi-Tiered Systems of Supports (MTSS) December 2025 A key focus in 2025 was the development of a Curriculum Playbook, a practical guide that supports teachers with clear expectations and instructional practices. We are also designing project-based learning experiences that help students make meaningful connections and apply their learning in authentic ways. The committee currently includes four members with experience in Orton-Gillingham, math instruction, project-based learning, and Multi-tiered Systems of Supports (MTSS). We look forward to welcoming an additional member who is aligned with our work. The committee was meeting monthly during 2025, but will begin to meet every two weeks starting in January 2026, as they prepare for opening in the fall of 2026. Through thoughtful planning now, we are building a strong foundation so Cornerstone students can thrive for years to come. Featured Blog Post Successfully Engaging Students with Joy and Excitement - Safety is Needed for Learning Children learn when they are supported by a classroom culture that creates a place where they feel safe enough to take a risk. Learning is difficult! It requires us to feel a bit uncomfortable within the learning process. This discomfort is what propels us to learn or continue learning. At Cornerstone Chartered Public School we intentionally create spaces for children to successfully navigate their discomfort so they can learn to the very best of their ability. Dr. Maura Hart

Cornerstone Chartered Public School empowers children in the Upper Valley with a literacy-first public education that implements the Orton-Gillingham Approach, offering families a high-quality choice that builds strong readers, critical thinkers, and future leaders. Ways to Support Laying the Cornerstone for our Children's Future With your generous support, we’re building a school and a future where every child becomes a strong reader, a curious thinker, and a courageous leader. Supporting Cornerstone Chartered Public School empowers children to achieve their full potential through the transformative power of literacy. We are proud to offer a public, tuition-free education firmly anchored in decades of reading research. Join us in making a lasting difference in the lives of our future leaders! Click an image below to find out more VOLUNTEER YOUR TIME SHARE YOUR TESTIMONY VOLUNTEER YOUR TALENT SHARE YOUR TIES Share Your Testimony & Ties Some of the most powerful ways people support Cornerstone don’t involve writing a check. They involve sharing a story or making a connection. Testimony Your voice matters. When families, educators, and community members share why strong literacy instruction, charter schools, or public school choice matters to them, it helps others understand the importance of this work. Ties Connections are powerful. Introducing Cornerstone to someone in your network - a community leader, local business owner, potential donor, or family who may be looking for a new school option - can open doors that help this vision grow. Many of the opportunities that shape a school begin with a simple introduction. How to Share If you would like to share your story or connect Cornerstone with someone who may be interested in learning more, we would love to hear from you. Email: [email protected] or Join our mailing list and let us know you would like to share your testimony or make a connection. Every voice and every connection helps strengthen the foundation we are building together! Testimony & Ties