Education Services

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The school years are formative ones in which an array of experiences must be provided to promote knowledge and understanding of the world. This learning foundation becomes a predictor of future success as adults. When potential growth and development is disrupted by a disability it is imperative to provide individuals with experiences crucial in achieving knowledge and independence.

The Center's education program provides students a safe, secure and loving atmosphere to learn and grow. The program is filled with an array of sensory and literary enriched experiences and materials that allow each student to become an independent, freethinking being.

Our education program is accredited by the North Central Association for Schools and by the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction.

Year-round: The school provides a nine-month program of functional academics, life skills training, vocational education and training, creative arts and adaptive physical education. A summer school program provides 10 weeks of half-day sessions.
Classrooms: Each classroom is staffed with a regular teacher, a certified special education teacher and life skills trainers. They are decorated simply, taking care not to provide a setting that is over or under-stimulating in order to meet a variety of student needs. Work areas are available for group activities as well as spaces for individual work. Quiet places are provided for those students who need few distractions. All classrooms are accessible to the cafeteria, gymnasium, outdoor area, swimming pool and accessible restrooms. Teachers encourage the learning that needs to occur in order for students to develop comprehensive knowledge and skills.
Individual programs: Although individual educational programs are designed to meet the students' unique qualities and abilities, the Center's overall educational program emphasizes nurturing productive and self-sufficient people who contribute to the community in which they participate. Therefore, a student's role as a member of the community is an integral part of the educational experience.
Curriculum design: All educational activities and experiences are designed to actively involve the students, stimulating and promoting comprehension, critical thinking and learning. While familiarity with basic academics is necessary for optimal functioning in society, the acquisition of academic skills in a functional context is emphasized.
Curriculum components: Language arts, math and physical education emphasize each student's needs and development in daily living skills, social-emotional skills and overall independence. Content areas including science and social studies broaden the students' knowledge of the world around them and help them develop special interests.
Creative arts: The arts are essential to the lifelong development of the whole person. These creative experiences provide aesthetic, perceptual, and sensory input. In the process of creating, performing, participating and being exposed to various artistic forms, students gain knowledge, skills and attitudes which greatly enhance their quality of life through self-expression.
Behavior management: To help children gain an understanding of socially appropriate behavior and succeed in classroom and social settings, the Center provides an extensive behavior management program. Services for all children may include psychological testing, behavior goals and team assistance. These services are particularly important for children with autism.
Community integration and vocational programs: Students begin to participate in this program once they are 14, receiving training and support as they prepare to enter adult life. Training may include independent living skills, social interaction opportunities and community-based job experience. We match individual interests and abilities to appropriate vocational experience with a community business. When adaptive equipment is necessary to ensure a successful experience, the Center will recommend functional adaptations designed for individual needs.