Childhood (5–21 years)
Our specialized school services are designed for children ages 5 – 21 with intellectual and developmental disabilities including AutismA developmental condition that affects social interactions, communication and repetitive behavior. A person with autism may or may not also have an intellectual disability., Down SyndromeA genetic condition with certain physical features and usually mild intellectual disability. Many people with Down Syndrome have overcome obstacles in life to become very successful and independent., Cerebral PalsyA condition primarily involving muscle stiffness, weak muscles and tremors which can affect movement, sensation, swallowing and speaking. People with Cerebral Palsy may or may not also have an intellectual disability. and other related conditions. With locations across the Hudson Valley, we deliver exceptional quality educationThe process of facilitating learning, or the acquisition of knowledge, skills, values, beliefs and habits. We believe all children and adults can benefit from quality education. using evidence-basedThis term is often used to describe a particular therapeutic treatment or educational model, and it means the treatment or model has been subjected to rigorous scientific testing that demonstrated it is effective – or more effective than other treatments or models. methods that prepare students for life beyond school. Children in our program are referred by their home school districts so they can participate in our highly specialized academic and therapeutic services. There is no cost for children that qualify and transportation is provided. Please note that students with disabilities are eligible to receive special educationThe process of facilitating learning, or the acquisition of knowledge, skills, values, beliefs and habits. We believe all children and adults can benefit from quality education. services until the age of 21. However, some young adults and their families might opt to leave school services earlier than 21 to pursue work or some kind of adult service.
Academics
Academic instruction is delivered by NYS Certified Special EducationThe process of facilitating learning, or the acquisition of knowledge, skills, values, beliefs and habits. We believe all children and adults can benefit from quality education. Teachers with support from Certified Teacher Assistants and Teacher Aides. Each student has an individualized educationThe process of facilitating learning, or the acquisition of knowledge, skills, values, beliefs and habits. We believe all children and adults can benefit from quality education. program (IEP), and teaching staff record measurable progress toward goals in student plans. Instruction is facilitated by technologies, including high-definition interactive smart screens using academic applications. Through commitment to the highest level of educational quality, we give each student the best opportunity to maximize their level of readiness for life after graduating from school.
Clinical Services
When it is determined that a student needs therapies such as Speech Language TherapyEvaluation, diagnosis and intervention used to help people overcome challenges to communication, including but not limited to pragmatics, literacy, voice difficulties and cognitive effects on communication., Occupational TherapyProfessional assessment and interventions used to help people develop and maintain essential skills needed for independence and self-sufficiency. and Physical TherapyProfessional assessment and intervention used to help people develop and maintain physical control and mobility., we provide those direct therapies as part of the school day. All therapies are provided by licensed professionals in state-of-the-art facilities. These services are designed to help child development and allow students to get maximum benefit from academic instruction. Our school programs also include trained and qualified Behavior Clinicians that conduct analysis and develop behavior intervention plans when needed.
Adaptive Communication
One of the most common challenges for children with disabilities is communication. As part of our program, Speech Language Therapists design individualized communication systems for children who need them. These systems often include low and high tech solutions including Picture Exchange, Sign Language, iPads and other tablets with communication apps and other specialized communication devices. Our program works with families to carry these communication strategies over to the home.
Adaptive Physical Education & Play
Specialized physical educationThe process of facilitating learning, or the acquisition of knowledge, skills, values, beliefs and habits. We believe all children and adults can benefit from quality education. classes are a regular part of the school curriculum at Abilities First. Student learn to develop strength, coordination and overcome individual physical challenges. It’s also important for children to play, which occurs inside in the physical educationThe process of facilitating learning, or the acquisition of knowledge, skills, values, beliefs and habits. We believe all children and adults can benefit from quality education. space and outside on the state-of-the art playground constructed in 2017/2018.
Day Camp for Extended School Breaks
Our school is a 12-month program; however, the school is closed three times per year for extended school breaks (i.e., ten days or more). These include spring break, break between regular school year and summer session and break between summer session and beginning of new school year. This can create hardship for working families that may not be able to find specialized child care. To address this, Abilities First offers a Day Camp during these extended breaks. This is a full-day program that takes place at the Poughkeepsie school site and is funded by a grant from the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). In order to qualify, students must be determined eligible for OPWDD services and live with their families in Putnam, Dutchess, Ulster, Columbia or Greene Counties.
Transition Services
Students in the high-school years (i.e., 14 years and older) should begin specific planning for life after graduation. Each student in this age group works with a transition team including their Special Education TeacherA credentialed professional educator that specializes in teaching those with special needs., Transition Coordinator, Occupational Therapist (if required) and staff from Abilities First Employment Services division to develop goals and a transition plan. These activities prepare students for graduation and ensure a smooth transition to adult services or employment.
Locations
Dutchess County
24 Firemens Way
Poughkeepsie, NY 12603
Phone: (845) 452-0774 Hours: 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM