Exceptional Education's Darwin C. Smith School's philosophy is anchored in the Circle of Courage, a model that embodies the values of belonging, mastery, independence, and generosity. These principles, below, guide our approach to education, creating a nurturing space where students can thrive emotionally, socially, and academically.

• Belonging: We affirm the worth and dignity of every student, fostering a sense of belonging within our school community. We strive to create an inclusive environment where students feel accepted, valued, and connected to their peers and educators.

• Mastery: We are committed to providing differentiated instruction that meets the unique learning needs of each student. We empower students and cultivate a sense of mastery and accomplishment in their academic and personal pursuits.

• Independence: Promoting autonomy and self-efficacy, we encourage students to take ownership of their learning journey. By fostering independence, we prepare students for success beyond the classroom, equipping them with the skills and confidence to navigate life's challenges and opportunities.

• Generosity: Our school community thrives on a culture of kindness, empathy, and generosity. We teach and model kindness with lessons embedded into our curriculum.

We cater to the unique needs of students aged five through 22 through our exceptional education programs; 8:1:1, 8:1:3, 12:1:1, 12:1:4, . Our multitude of classes provide an environment that fosters individualized attention, one in which every student can be successful.

As an Exceptional Education school, we are dedicated to cultivating an environment that is not only trauma-informed but also trauma-practiced, striving to recognize the profound impact of past experiences on each individual's learning, behavior and overall well-being. Our educators are trained to create a safe and supportive environment that recognizes and responds to the unique needs of each student, promoting healing and fostering resilience.

Through the integration of the Circle of Courage and trauma-informed practices, we strive to create an educational experience that goes beyond academics, nurturing the holistic development of each student on their path to success.