Residential Life

For families who need more intensive support for their child, we combine day school services with residential living in our on-campus residence or one of our community-based homes.


The decision to move a child to a residential program can be a difficult one. Our staff work diligently to address the concerns of families before, during, and after a move. We create a home-away-from-home that is safe and nurturing, while encouraging students and their families to maintain a strong connection with regular phone calls and visits.

Every student’s residential experience is unique and personalized. It focuses on behavioral, social, and independent skills development, and addresses each child’s medical and rehabilitative needs. School and residential staff work together to coordinate students’ IEP goals so the learning doesn't stop at the end of the school day.

Because each student’s diagnosis, challenges, and goals are different, each student's daily routine will differ. As students successfully move through their programs, their routines may change to reflect new challenges and milestones that await them. 
 

Each day in a residence is designed to reflect a typical day for any child.

It begins with breakfast and getting ready for school, and involves the hustle and bustle of a houseful of children in the morning. Children come home from school to snacks and playtime, homework, chores, and shared meals. They take part in typical weekend outings to local stores, restaurants, and movies.

More challenging and exciting recreational outings such as camping and white water rafting — activities that help teenagers build self-confidence and self-esteem — are options for some students. 

The life skills that all students practice during their time in our residential programs — good health and hygiene, meal planning and preparation, budgeting, and appropriate social interaction — help prepare them to successfully transition into a more independent environment.

 

Here's a glimpse into a typical day of a residential student at our school.