Sterling Grade School uses the Saxon Phonics Program.  This is a very in-depth, rigorous phonics program that instructs the children to learn and apply phonetic rules.  Let me warn you, this probably will look very different than the phonics you encountered as a child.  There is homework Monday through Thursday that students are to complete and return to school each day.  The homework relates to the concept taught that day and should take between 5-10 minutes to complete, depending on the concept and the " focus level" of the student.  You will receive a homework "packet" that you might like to refer to for some of the tougher pages (and feel free to call or e-mail with any questions).  I am a firm believer in this program.  It can seem quite cumbersome at times, but in the long run I think you will find it produces very skilled readers and spellers.