The Skills Class at AEF is a specialized small group classroom designed to support students who may require additional guidance in developing essential classroom and self-regulatory skills. With a maximum of five students per class, the Skills Class provides an individualized and structured environment where students can work on enhancing their self-regulation and social skills.
Objectives and Focus:
- Self-Regulation: The primary focus of the Skills Class is to help students build strong self-regulatory skills. This includes developing techniques to manage emotions, control impulses, and stay organized, fostering a sense of responsibility and independence.
- Social Skills: Students in the Skills Class engage in activities and exercises that promote positive social interactions. They learn effective communication, conflict resolution, and teamwork, helping them build meaningful relationships with peers and teachers.
- Academic Support: The Skills Class also provides academic support to ensure students continue their educational progress. Teachers tailor instruction to meet individual learning needs, reinforcing essential academic skills.
- Behavioral Management: The classroom employs evidence-based behavioral management strategies to encourage appropriate behavior and reinforce positive choices. Consistent routines and clear expectations are established to create a safe and predictable environment.
Key Features:
- Low Student-to-Teacher Ratio: With a maximum of five students, the classroom ensures personalized attention and support, allowing teachers to address each student’s unique needs effectively.
- Individualized Learning Plans: Each student in the Skills Class receives an individualized learning plan tailored to their specific goals and challenges, ensuring targeted skill development.
- Structured Environment: A structured daily schedule, visual aids, and clear routines help students understand expectations, reduce anxiety, and improve self-regulation.
- Positive Reinforcement: Positive behavior is consistently acknowledged and rewarded to reinforce desired outcomes and motivate students to make appropriate choices.
Duration:
Students are placed in the Skills Class for an indefinite time period, determined by their individual progress and readiness to transition back to a mainstream classroom setting. Progress is regularly assessed, and students may move to less restrictive settings when they demonstrate the necessary skills.
Collaborative Approach:
The Skills Class operates in close collaboration with parents, guardians, special education professionals, and support staff to ensure a holistic and integrated approach to each student’s development.
At AEF Schools, our commitment is to empower students with the skills they need to succeed academically and socially. The Skills Class embodies this commitment by providing a nurturing and specialized environment where every student can thrive and reach their full potential.