PATHWAYS

The Pathways program is a separate public day school designed to support students identified with significant and complex social, emotional, and behavioral support needs that impact their ability to access and participate in the general education setting successfully. The Pathways program implements a continuum of evidence-based instructional and behavioral practices through a highly structured learning environment to support students experiencing emotional and behavioral difficulties, which may include depression, anxiety, social skills deficits, impulsivity, histories marked by trauma or loss, chronic school failure, and learning difficulties.

The Pathways program design includes a high staff-to-student ratio, allowing for a more individualized and intensified academic and social-emotional setting. Classrooms typically have 8-10 students with a team structure of a special education teacher, teaching assistant, and intervention specialists (social workers and school psychologists). In addition to the support of the classroom team, related services are interwoven with the instructional program to support communication, self-regulation, self-management, and sensory needs.

The Pathways program implements evidence-based instructional and behavioral practices in a highly structured learning environment through one-to-one, small-group, and whole-group instruction. Classrooms are designed to provide predictable and meaningful routines that assist  students  in  mastering  academics,  developing  social  skills,  and  increasing self-awareness, self-control, and self-esteem. Using a trauma-informed approach within a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS), staff implement an instructional framework that aims to increase social, emotional, and academic success for all students by:

●    Utilizing evidence-based, respectful, non-punitive, prevention-oriented behavior practices
●    Focusing on skill teaching, intervention, and re-teaching as necessary
 

●    Ongoing assessment of student progress and revising interventions and approaches as appropriate
●    Using principles of restorative justice to manage conflicts and redirect negative behavior
●    Providing students authentic opportunities to process content and take ownership of their learning

The Pathways program is not just about immediate support but also about long-term success. It aims to equip students with the academic and social skills necessary to thrive in their home district's educational environments and to prepare them for successful careers or college.

Looking for another staff member?

Staff Directory