BEARS | BOCES Educating Autistic and Related Disorders Students

Our BEARS programs are designed primarily for students who have a diagnosis of autism, and are in grades K-12 and up to age 22. Classes are configured as 8:1:2s. The program is designed for learners who require intensive and individualized support, attention and intervention for cognitive, speech and language, fine and gross motor as well as social and emotional development. 

Our goal is to support students to develop communication and cognitive skills that maximize opportunities to socialize and work in a community setting.

Our BEARS program is based on the TEACCH method which includes:

• A structured and well-organized environment that is conducive to learning by promoting consistent and effective learning through the use of intentional visuals and boundaries, while also decreasing stimulation, distractions and anxiety for student's sensory differences.
• Predictable environment that includes the use of schedules and sequenced activities to reduce anxiety and promote independence
• Use of visuals to allow better understanding, more accessibility and greater independence in following routines, reducing unwanted behaviors, and completing tasks or interactions
• Balance of routine structures with flexibility in materials, tasks, and time to promote independence but also allow students to manage variability
• Structured work and activity systems that allow students to understand a task, the time period for the task, measure progress to completion, and what happens when the task is completed

Curriculum & Instruction:

• Interdisciplinary Approach: Special Education teachers, Teaching Assistants, and Related Service Providers, such as Speech & Language Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, Social Workers, and Assistive Technology, work collaboratively to create learning experiences
• Variety of Groupings: Instruction is designed for students individually, in small groups, or whole groups.
• Aligned to NYS Learning Standards: Utilizing Unique Learning Systems as the core curriculum, professionals work to build lessons and learning experiences that are based in real life current events and support the development of functional academic skills. 
• Focus on Skill Development, Application & Generalization: The curriculum teaches positive behavior, social skills, communication and job-readiness skills.Students are provided multiple opportunities to practice and generalize skills in a variety of ways and settings. 
• Individualized Education Plans: In every BEARS class, individual services are provided as reflected in students' Individual Education Plans (IEPs), and progress is documented on a regular basis. 

Program Highlights:

• Language rich environments
• Community-based learning experiences at all levels
• Focus at the Middle & High School classes to career exploration and work skill development
• Opportunities to partner with CTE and other Exceptional Learners' programs for academic and social experiences
• Total communication approach in all classroom
• Integrated therapy delivery in the classroom
• Team approach and collaboration with outside agencies to support students and families

Students Completing the Program:

• Develop the cognitive, motor, language and social skills needed for success in the community and workplace
• Earn a Skills and Achievement Credential 
• Receive high-quality, comprehensive supports and interventions to promote positive outcomes beyond the classroom
• Work with a transition coordinator and/or School Counselor to support transition from school

Program Locations:

Our BEARS classrooms are located at each of our centers: Sanford Street Teaching and Learning Center, F. Donald Myers Education Center and Southern Adirondack Education Center. We also have two classrooms at Ballard Road Elementary School in the South Glens Falls school district.