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.
![Front entrance of school](/programs/files/images/seschool.jpg?mask=1)
Southeast Alternative School
6S331 Cornwall Road
Naperville, IL 60540
Phone: (630) 778-4510
Eligibility
Students are determined to be eligible for the SASED Directions program through the IEP process in their home districts. SASED programs are just one option in the continuum of supports, services and placements available to meet a student’s needs.
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