


Nursing
Skilled nursing care provided by
registered nurses
Instruction in health promotion and
disease prevention by certified school nurse
Health screenings provided annually
Administration of medications
and first aid procedures included
Occupational Therapy
Life skills, pre-vocational, as well as academic readiness abilities are addressed
Sensory motor, perceptual motor and fine motor skills are the treatment focus
Classroom seating and positioning for educational success included
Development of modifications for independence in handwriting/self-care
Physical Therapy
Functional mobility skills addressed as they relate to the educational environment
Training in gross motor coordination skills
Balance and strength training included with development of home programs
Orthopedic concerns are an area of focus
Speech Therapy
A total communication approach is utilized to facilitate effective interactions with others. Methods utilized include the following:
Verbalization, gestures, sign language
Picture communication symbols/Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
Voice output communication aids (VOCA)
Oral motor interventions
Counseling
A licensed school social worker is available to assist with developing appropriate behavior and social skills
Individual/Group sessions provided
Emphasis on developing coping skills with positive supports
Adaptive Physical Education
The overall health, fitness level and physical growth of the students are the focus of the adaptive physical education program. Age- and skill level-appropriate goals are developed utilizing a wide variety of equipment, progressions, and activities. Intramural sports include:
Soccer, Softball, Basketball
Track
Floor Hockey
Swim Program
Tournament of Champions Bowling Program
Music
Music classes feature exploring different styles, history, composers, and performers. A strong emphasis is placed on self expression through participation in a variety of highly motivating activities which enhance social skill development through:
School-wide performances
Featuring our students’ unique talents
Instrumental and vocal instruction
Choreography/movement
Art
Art Inspiration is the key for every artistic work produced in art class. Each student is given the opportunity to create their own style and use art as a means of expression. The program features:
Exposure to different art styles/techniques
Pocket calendar highlighting student art
Annual art exhibits
Artwork featured at a local museum
This program was featured in “I Am An Artist” film documentary
School to Work Transition Program
School to Work Transition Program Our program provides mandated and essential “school-to-work” transition services for 14- to 21-year-old students. Each school employs a dedicated Structured Learning Experience Coordinator. We provide classroom instruction in:
Academic Survival Skills
Career Possibilities
The Job Application Process
Appropriate Social Skills
Activities of Daily Living
Our program provides the student with the experience of working at a job within the school setting. Each student is provided with on-the-job training. The student’s time at work is recorded and his or her job performance is evaluated. This work experience helps the students to develop the work and social skills that are necessary prior to their placement at a job site in the local community. The students gain school-based work experience in the following areas:
Maintenance Services
Office and Clerical Work
Delivery Services
Inventory of Supplies
Development of Small Businesses
Food Services
Cashier Skills
Sales Associate
Students are given the opportunity to work at a local participating business that has agreed to partner with us. Our staff works closely with the personnel of each business prior to and during the job placement. An Employment Specialist from our staff accompanies each student to the job site to assist them in performing their required tasks. They also ensure appropriate interaction with co-workers and a supervisor. The students gain community-based work experience at the following types of work sites:
Offices
Retail Stores
Chain Stores
Restaurants
Libraries
Plant Nursery
The school staff is committed to assisting students in acquiring the skills that will enable them to live independently, be actively involved in their communities and be able to find employment and the appropriate supports.
Support Services at Alpha School
Support services are an integral component of the educational team. Nursing, Counseling, Occupational, Speech, and Physical Therapy Services are provided based on a child’s individual needs as recommended in their IEP (Individualized Education Program). Services include:
Utilization of a dynamic treatment model
Collaborative use of physical, communication,
and health strategies
Staff/parent training in specific techniques
Individual/small group sessions available
Collaborative team meetings with classroom staff