PreSchool, Elementary & Middle School Programs

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PROGRAM

The Elementary School Program provides the students with developmental academics, transitional academics, life skills, career awareness and personal-social skills in a structured, supportive environment. The IEP goals and objectives are based on the student’s current level of functioning and developed utilizing the ACSSSD’s Transition
Curriculum. This curriculum is relevant to the
needs of the students and cross correlated with
the NJ Core Curriculum Content Standards. An
individualized approach is used to teach and
reinforce learning. At the elementary level, emphasis
is placed on the acquisition and development of new
skills. Occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech
therapy and counseling services are provided for students,
as indicated in the IEP.

GOALS

  • To develop prerequisite learning skills in the areas of communication, beginning reading, math, personal-social behavior, life skills, and career education in a structured, nurturing environment.
  • To assist students in their development of a positive self image, socially appropriate behaviors, and positive work attitudes.
  • To introduce students to Career Awareness and the appropriate work habits and behaviors necessary for success.
  • To provide students with the opportunity to develop the skills necessary to continue in an academic program within A.C.S.S.S.D. or their resident district.


ENTRY CRITERIA

  • Eligible for Special Education Services as cited
    in N.J.A.C. 6:28.
  • Chronological ages 5 to 10 years.
  • Identified as needing an alternative
    ELEMENTARY PROGRAM, consisting of
    small structured, self-contained classrooms
    based upon the developmental needs of the
    students.
  • Student needs for program placement are reviewed on an individual basis.

PROGRAM OPPORTUNITIES:

  • ACADEMIC SKILLS - The academic component of the program is based on the functional levels of the students. Developmental academics are offered, as well as Transitional Academics, which are a more functional version of Reading, Math, Social Studies and Science. Individualized strategies and materials are utilized according to the varying needs, abilities and learning styles of the students. Computer technology is also incorporated into instruction. Communication skills are an integral part of all classroom activities. These skills are achieved through various modes of instruction, which may consist of speech, sign language, picture communication symbols, the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) or through the use of augmentative communication devices.
  • PERSONAL-SOCIAL SKILLS - The ELEMENTARY PROGRAM gives the students many opportunities to develop and practice appropriate personal-social skills. Students in this program learn about themselves, as well as social boundaries and expectations. Healthy interpersonal relationships are developed and nurtured within the classroom through various cooperative and interactive activities.
  • LIFE SKILLS - Life Skills activities provide a hands-on approach to facilitate the development of independent self-help skills in the areas of eating, dressing, personal hygiene, grooming and safety. The Additional Daily Living Room also provides a kitchen setting in which students develop basic food preparation skills, table setting, and manners.
  • CAREER AWARENESS - The Career Awareness component of the program begins to explore various workers in the community, why people work and the traits of a good worker. Developing good work habits is emphasized and reinforced in the ELEMENTARY PROGRAM. Students are also given the opportunity to visit the work programs in the high school and eat at the school restaurant.
  • HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION - These classes provide students the opportunity to participate in various games and activities, while improving their health and fitness. Students within the program are also involved in Special Olympics and Tournament of Champions. Through these experiences, students develop a positive self-image, an understanding of teamwork and an appreciation of good sportsmanship.
  • ART - Art activities serve to build student confidence and self-esteem. Students generally receive art instruction on a weekly basis. Students have the opportunity to develop their creativity through individual projects, cooperative learning projects, and sensory experiences. These activities also encourage the students to develop their listening skills, fine motor abilities, perceptual skills and interpersonal relationships.
  • MUSIC - Music instruction is provided by the music teacher. The music program provides a wide variety of activities and experiences including movement, song, listening and instrument playing. Some activities are structured so that the student’s visual and auditory attending skills are emphasized; other activities are left open to the student’s internal creativity through improvisation. The music activities stimulate student’s receptive and expressive communication skills and motor skills. Social skills are also developed by using turn taking and participating in partner and group activities. The goal of the program is to provide these students with a positive interactive music experience.