At The Maddux School, the phrase “Better Together” is more than a motto—it’s a guiding principle that shapes every aspect of the school’s culture. From interdisciplinary instruction to structured play, the staff at Maddux thoughtfully design opportunities for students and educators to collaborate, connect, and grow.
“The theme of Better Together symbolizes our community and how important all of the players are,” says Jenny Engel, Director of The Maddux School. “When we are able to really come together and work together, it shows the magic and brilliance that happens here every day.”
A Multi-Disciplinary Team with a Shared Purpose
That magic is rooted in a deeply collaborative, multi-disciplinary approach. “What makes Maddux different is that we are a multi-disciplinary team,” explains Marissa Kuhn, Learning Resource Specialist. “We have special educators, occupational therapists, speech language pathologists, psychologists, and administrators.”
This team-based model fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose. “It does really feel like a family,” says Amy Greenberg, Occupational Therapist. “It’s so nice to have support of your coworkers, your administration and parents as well. I think we all have a common goal.”
That goal is to help each student thrive. Engel emphasizes the importance of understanding each student’s starting point: “The first thing we really want to do is get a sense of where each student is. What ground are you standing on?” This deep understanding allows staff to build strong, trusting relationships with students—relationships that Kuhn says are key to success. “When you have stronger relationships with students, it improves learning outcomes, and it improves their engagement in their learning.”
Learning Through Collaboration
One standout example of collaboration is the school’s SPOT program—an interdisciplinary initiative combining speech and occupational therapy. “For example, something like a building challenge incorporates lots of different goals,” Greenberg explains. “We’re working on executive functioning, motor planning, fine motor skills, and turn-taking—all in one activity.”
Speech Language Pathologist Brittany Davis Martin adds that these activities also build social-emotional skills. “We start by giving them some language to use, and strategies like compromising or agreeing to disagree. They get hands-on experience with support of teachers right nearby to help them work together.”
Even recess is reimagined as a space for growth. Engel describes “Organized Sports,” a structured recess program led by occupational therapists. “They’re learning how to wait their turn. They’re learning how to be a good sport.” Monthly “Buddy Groups” also bring students from different classrooms together to tackle challenges and practice teamwork.
“We really, intentionally and very strategically build in activities, instructions, lessons, and supports for our students to collaborate,” Engel says. At The Maddux School, being “Better Together” isn’t just a belief—it’s a daily practice that empowers every member of the community to shine.
