Educational Programs
Our state-licensed and approved private school programs provide extensive,
year-round special education and supports, offering instruction that ranges
from functional life skills to high school level academics.
Each person’s educational goals are integrated with all other aspects of his or her life. Whether learning reading and mathematical skills, creating artwork for local competitions or participating in musical performances, an atmosphere of personalized instruction gives our students the chance to learn, grow and accomplish specific goals.
Classrooms at Woods are upbeat, lively and staffed by certified special education teachers. A typical class consists of six to seven students allowing us to tailor active, personalized teaching strategies for self-contained or departmentalized instruction.
For older children, pre-vocational training is assimilated into the school day. To help students successfully transition into a career, work-based learning features hands-on skill development in the fields of building trades, hospitality and office practices. Students also learn job search and interview strategies, personal banking and budgeting, the use of public transportation, and the social skills they need to succeed.
A dedicated team of teachers and support staff provides an array of services to students in three distinct educational programs –
- The Gardner Education Center
Serving primarily school-aged clients in the Mollie Woods program, Gardner provides special education services, supplemented by therapeutic supports with licensed speech, occupational and physical therapists. To further enhance learning and independence, our assistive technology center provides adaptive solutions to many of the functional challenges encountered by people with disabilities.
- Woodlands Education Center
Serving children and adolescents in the Woodlands program, this Center provides a comprehensive special education program that features close instructional supervision and support. Functional academics are emphasized in addition to behavioral self-management and social skill development. The younger students participate in self-contained classroom settings. Older students change classes throughout the day, may participate in Woods’ employment training services, and can earn high school diplomas or equivalencies.
- Crestwood Education Center
Serving clients in the Crestwood program, this education program resembles a public school setting. Most children benefit from the consistency and structure of small classrooms that change throughout the day, while some need the extensive instructional and therapeutic supports found in self-contained classrooms. Students earn credits towards a high school diploma and may also participate in vocational training. The school’s philosophy emphasizes personal success through academic progress, personal responsibility, coping skills and socialization.
