Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) Center Programs

These programs use smaller student-to-teacher ratios. Each program typically has a special education teacher (Learning Specialist), a Mental Health Provider (like a psychologist or social worker), and Paraeducators. The adult-to-student ratio is 1:2, meaning there is typically one adult for every two students.

Students receive support in specific areas where they may need additional help. These areas include:

• Social and Emotional Learning: They help students with social behaviors and understanding emotions using research-based strategies like modeling, visual supports, and social skills training. They also teach replacement behaviors and self-monitoring skills.
• Communication: Students learn different ways to communicate their wants and needs effectively, whether verbally or through other methods such as an augmentative and alternative communication device (AAC). 
• Following Routines and Instructions: Students are taught expected behaviors in the classroom and how to complete school work. They learn to use visual schedules, which helps them understand the daily routine, prepare for changes, know what's expected, and transition smoothly between activities.
• Executive Functioning: This involves teaching students how to manage their materials, keep their environment organized, and make meaningful choices.
• Behavioral Support: The program prioritizes addressing challenging behaviors early on. This is done through goals in the IEP or a special Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) based on understanding why a behavior is happening (a Functional Behavior Assessment or FBA). They teach and reinforce positive behaviors and use positive support strategies tailored to the individual student.

Even in a specialized setting, students receive instruction that is driven by grade-level standards.

The program aims to help students spend time in the regular education classroom whenever possible. This is important because interacting with peers provides models for social behavior and attention. General education teachers are important partners in supporting students' success and helping them with transitions into and out of the regular classroom.

The programs are flexible and can change as needed to respond to the individual student's needs. The services they receive, including how much time is spent in general education vs. specialized classes, are determined by their IEP.