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Exceptional Learners Division » Continuum of Services

Continuum of Services

The services we provide are based exclusively on the Individual Education Plan (IEP) developed for each student by his or her local school district's Committee on Special Education and approved by the district Board of Education.
 
Instruction aligns with the Common Core Learning Standards for achievement of their goals, as identified on their IEP. Based on their EIP, students have the option to work either towards a Regents diploma, CDOS Commencement Credential, SACC (Skills and Achievement Credential, or GED).
 

Student/Teacher Ratios

The WSWHE Exceptional Learner's Program is composed of special classes located at BOCES centers and in component classes. Students are referred to special classes through the CSE process. The class size aligns with NYSED regulations for special classes as part of the continuum of services, allowing for students with disabilities to be grouped by similarity of needs in order to receive specially designed instruction.

Grouping

Instruction is provided to students grouped by similarity of needs rather than by disability classification. Similarity of needs is determined by level of academic/educational achievement, learning rate, social and physical development, and the management needs of pupils.

12:1: (1+1) : School to Work Program

12 Students: 1 Teacher: 2 Paraprofessionals
The 12:1:2 class configuration offers support from additional adults (paraprofessionals) for those students whose academic/cognitive/or social needs require more management than can be offered within a regular classroom setting even with the use of supplementary aids and services. 

8:1:2 - BEARS Program

The BEARS program (BOCES Educating Autistic and Related Disorders Students) serves primarily children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder or other related disabilities. These classrooms are highly structured settings for students whose management needs are highly intensive, requiring a high degree of individualized attention and intervention. The program focuses on developing student's cognitive, language and social skills as well as activities of daily living. The environment and instructional design incorporates structured support for social communication, visual supports, and external organization that is individualized to a student's needs. BEARS classrooms are located at WSWHE BOCES centers and in component classrooms.

6:1:1 - Therapeutic Support

6 Students: 1 Teacher: 1 Paraprofessional
The Therapeutic Support Programs (TSP) is for students with highly intensive management needs requiring a significant degree of individualized attention and intervention. The program is focused on social, emotional, and mental health while supporting students academic growth. TSP programs have crisis intervention support and use schoolwide approaches for establishing safe, predictable, supportive and responsive environments that can be individualized for students. Students engage in meaningful academic instruction that is aligned with New York State Learning Standards as well as opportunities to participate in work based learning experiences. TSP classes are available K-12 in all BOCES centers. Students are able to work towards a Regents diploma, local diploma or GED. NYSSA classes are also available for students who are alternatively assessed and working towards the Skills and Achievement Credential. 

4:1: (1+1) - Therapeutic Support

4 Students: 1 Teacher: up to 2 Paraprofessionals
This program is intended for students who require a comprehensive therapeutic setting with mental health support. These are center-based with a higher student-to-staff ratio. This program focuses on helping to integrate students in the school setting, with a focus on building student's skills in self-awareness, self-regulation, and interpersonal skills.  

Availability and Special Services
Special classes and related services are available during the regular 10-month and extended school year (ESY) 12-month programs. Related services and evaluations are available as recommended by the CSE committee. A student's types and levels of services are determined on an individual basis.