PAC’s Specialized Learning Communities are self-contained classrooms that serve students through the age of 21 with a broad spectrum of learning, behavioral, social and communication needs who require a high level of individualization and support. Students typically have a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder, Social-Emotional Disorders, Developmental Delay and/or present with similar significant learning/behavioral profiles.
These programs are located within age-appropriate public school or community settings affording each student the opportunity to engage in meaningful, authentic inclusionary experiences within their school and community. Class sizes are small with a high staff to student ratio. Classrooms are designed to provide students with a highly structured program that utilizes routines and schedules, as well as consistency of approaches and interventions to foster the maintenance, generalization and carryover of skills and behaviors.
PAC employs an integrated related services approach. Speech/Language, Occupational, Physical Therapy and behavioral supports are delivered in context to the educational goals, objectives and activities developed by the student’s team. This approach ensures that the expertise of the related service personnel is being carried over throughout the student’s entire educational program to maximize opportunities for the student to maintain and generalize his/her skills across familiar and novel people, places, and activities. Opportunities are provided for Collaborative students to integrate into regular education classes and activities, and to become active participants in the school community as well as the greater community.
Instructional methodology and related services include the following:
● Applied Behavior Analysis
● Therapy & Consultation
● Behavioral Consultation/BCBA
● Speech and Language Therapy
● Occupational Therapy
● Physical Therapy
● Counseling Services
● Reading Services upon request
● Transitional Support
Transitional Programs at PAC
Beginning at age 14, and continuing through age 21, PAC programs focus on transition planning as an integral part of the curriculum with an emphasis placed on interest inventories, career exploration, vocational training and whenever possible, the pursuit of higher education. Utilizing this information, PAC staff guide students to learn as much about themselves as possible to help foster the development of self-advocacy skills.
Once students have completed a high school program, the process to transition into adult services, higher education and/or supervised living begins. While continuing functional academic progress, emphasis is placed on vocational, transitional and life skills development. Opportunities for student growth are nurtured in the areas of employment, volunteer opportunities, daily living skills, recreation and leisure activities, travel training, and access to community resources. We are committed to fostering a smooth transition to adult life by working closely with families, caregivers, and adult community service agencies. Learn more about our Transitional opportunities by clicking our program links below.
Bridgewater Transitions – This is a program for students who typically work at or slightly below grade level with accommodations and supports.
PAC Transitions – This is a program for students who typically work below grade level and require accommodations and supports.
GAP Program – This is a post high school program, offered to those who have already graduated high school through our PACES department.
Referrals
The process for making referrals to PAC for any program or services must come from the sending school district of the student involved. Though PAC is pleased to provide general information regarding programs and services to parents and LEA representatives, any serious consideration of enrolling a student must begin with the formal initiation of referral documents from the sending school district’s Special Education Office to the Collaborative.
