Programs and Schedules

Academic Programming

Using various methodologies such as ABA, repetition and practice, errorless learning, forward and backward chaining, visual supports, hands-on manipulatives, sensory strategies, etc. students focus on reading and language arts, vocabulary, functional mathematics, vocational life skills and more. Curriculum is tailored to the needs of each student based on the unique learning style of that individual and the Individual Educational Plan.

Occupational Therapy

Gross and fine motor skills are addressed as well as sensory processing to determine how deficits in skills inhibit daily independent living such as dressing (zippers, buttons, tie shoes), eating (holding utensils), hygiene (brushing teeth, hair combing), printing/writing skills (holding pencils, coloring, cutting with scissors), etc. Sensory dysfunction may also inhibit learning for the student so activities are introduced to help ''desensitize" and integrate the student’s sensory processing system. Each student receives weekly occupational therapy for a minimum of 60 minutes.

Music Therapy

Music therapy uses music, movement and instruments to facilitate integration of sensory processing, understanding of feelings and emotions evoked by musical experiences, relationship building with peers through music, self-regulation and self _expression through music, and more. Music therapy services are provided by board certified music therapists. Each student receives 1 to 2 sessions per week of music therapy.

Speech and Language Therapy

Expressive and receptive language skills are addressed as well as functional communication skills. Students are thoroughly assessed and then provided with the mode of communication that best fits them such as Picture Exchange Communication Systems (PECS), voice output devices (7-level communicators), computer voice output devices, and other augmentative devices. Each student receives weekly speech therapy for a minimum of 60 minutes.

Social Work

Each student receives 1 to 2 sessions per week of social work services to promote social-emotional development. Social communication skills are addressed through playing age appropriate social games and sports, role-playing various situations, and by incorporating social stories, visual supports, cue cards, etc. to help student understand and appropriately express non-verbal communication as well as verbal communication.

Integrated Program Plan

Using gym equipment such as scooter boards, rocker boards, barrels, balance beam, slide and swings, etc. students work on integrating gross motor movement with language arts, reading, mathematics and problem solving skills, speech and communication skills, and more. Each student receives 1 to 2 sessions per week of IPP.

Computer-Based Academics

Students are presented with opportunities for academic instruction in the computer lab. Students are taught about accessing the technology as well as developing and maintaining specific academic skills through computer software programs.

Family Support

Families are provided with support through on-going communications with the school, direct support from teachers and therapists, and on-going workshops.

Inclusion

Many of our students are included for full or partial days at their home school for academic and/or social experiences with their peers. Accompanied by his or her program assistant, the student follows the typical grade level curriculum with modifications and visual supports as needed. Some students at Giant Steps have "graduated" and are fully integrated in their home schools. The inclusion program is supported by our Inclusion Facilitator.

One-to-One Ratio

Each classroom has 10 students with 9 program assistants and the classroom teacher. There is a one to one ratio for every class and special throughout the school. The staff works together as a team to provide the best possible education for the student.

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