The Classroom

Classroom teams are composed of three highly trained professionals: The teacher-counselor is a credentialed special education teacher; the associate teacher-counselor is a qualified mental health service provider; and, the team associate supports the work of both in implementing the daily integrated program. At Harbor, this team is augmented by classroom aides as these children and youth have significant communication disorders, and require even more individualized attention. At Midtown, where there is a great deal of focus on individual study and transition to the workforce, the classroom teams are comprised of the teacher-counselor and associate teacher-counselor, and are supported by the additional position of the vocational teacher-counselor.

Teaching children and youth academic skills is a primary goal in PEP classrooms. Building academic competency is therapeutic; students must be prepared to meet the challenges of schoolwork if they are to be successful in the future. Individualized planning, modifications, and accommodations support student learning and achievement.

The classroom team works together to construct meaningful and appropriate learning plans for each child. Together, they integrate a day that weaves academics, social-emotional skills development, and group work to help students build skills to learn and grow successfully.