Introduction

Alpha School, Harbor School and The Gateway School operate as private day schools, approved by the N.J.
Department of Education, providing an enhanced alternative program to the public school districts for students
with disabling conditions. The programs provide an individualized and holistic approach to meet the functional
academic and behavioral needs of the most challenging students from sending districts. We provide a nurturing
and supportive environment to address the following needs of our students:

Academics
Functional academics
Life skills
Social skills
Speech & Language skills
Gross & Fine Motor skills
Community-living skills
Career and Transition skills

Our goal is to provide an individualized learning environment the total development of each student and prepares them for future adult settings. By building academic and social skills, increasing student motivation, and bolstering self-esteem, students are prepared for re-entry into public education whenever possible. For those who continue to require our enhanced program, added emphasis is placed on the acquisition of life skills.

Our objective is to provide each child with a solid foundation that serves as the basis for future success. This
educational experience offers a definite advantage in preparing students with disabling conditions to lead
satisfying, productive and independent lives. Students served by the schools are classified in need of Special Education and Related Services. Their educational classifications include, but are not limited to, Autistic, Communication Impaired, Cognitively Impaired, Multiply Disabled, Other Health Impaired and Learning Disabled. Out multiple locations offer easy access to a large geographic area in central and northern New Jersey.

Educational Program

Students are instructed using multi-sensory techniques and materials to allow for different student learning
preferences and to enhance the ability of students to fully absorb learning objectives.

Specialized curriculum based on the Core Standards
Student-teach ratios of 1:1 to 3:1
ABA methodologies
Canter’s Assertive Discipline techniques
Small class size of 6-11 students
Highly qualified instructional staff
Individual and small group instruction
Academic Programs

The school academic program covers all of the following subject areas:

Literacy/Reading
Language Arts
Handwriting
Mathematics
Social Studies
World Language
Science
Computers
Health

Certified teachers assisted by trained paraprofessionals provide individualized and small group instruction in small class setting. A multi-sensory approach is used with individualized and modified techniques. A wide variety of materials are used to help each child to reach his or her full academic potential.

Some of the standard educations programs, as well as state-of-the-art-programs, that are used:

Edmark Reading Program
Milestones Reading Program
PCI Reading Program
Wilson Reading Program
Discrete Trial Trainer
Intellitools
Spectrum Math
Touch Point Math
Unique Learning Systems
Handwriting Without Tears
Steck Vaugh Material
Low Level High Interest Materials
Special Subject Areas
Adaptive Physical Education

The overall health, fitness level and physical growth of the students are the focus of the adaptive physical
education program. Age and skill level-appropriate goals are developed utilizing a wide variety of equipment,
progressions, and activities.

Intramural sports Include:

• Soccer
• Basketball
• Floor Hockey
• Softball
• Track
• Swim Program
• Music

Music classes feature exploring different styles, history, composers, and performers. A strong emphasis is placed on self expression through participation in a variety of highly motivating activities which enhance social skills development through:

School-wide performances featuring students’ unique talents
Instrumental and vocal instruction
Choreography/movement
Art

Inspiration is the key for every artistic work produced in art class. Each student is given the opportunity to create their own style and use art as a means of expression. The program features:

Exposure to different art styles, principles, techniques
Pocket calendar highlighting student art
Annual art exhibits
Artwork featured at local museum
The program was featured in “I Am An Artist” film documentary
Related Services

Related services are integral component of the education team, Nursing, Counseling, Occupational, Speech and
Physical Therapy Services are provided based on child’s individual needs as recommended in their IEP (Individual Education Program).

Services include:

Utilization of dynamic treatment model
Collaborative use of physical, communication and health strategies
Staff/parent training in special techniques
Individual/small group sessions available
Collaborative team meetings with classroom staff
Nursing

Skilled nursing care provided by registered nurses
Instruction in health promotion and disease prevention by certified school nurse
Health screenings provided annually
Administration of medications and first aid procedures included
Occupational Therapy

Life skills, pre-vocational, as well as academic readiness abilities are addressed
Sensory motor, perceptual motor and fine motor skills are the treatment focus
Classroom seating and positioning for educational success included
Development of modifications for independence in handwriting/self-care
Physical Therapy

Functional mobility skills addresses as they relate to the educational environment
Training in gross motor coordination skills
Balance and strength training included with development of home programs
Orthopedic concerns are an area of focus
Speech Therapy

A total communication approach is utilized to facilitate effective interactions with others. Methods utilized
including the following:

• Verbalization, gestures, sign language
• Picture communication in symbols/Picture Exchange Communication Systems (PECS)
• Voice output communication aids (VOCA)
• Oral motor interventions
• Counseling

A licensed school social worker is available to assist with developing appropriate behavior and social skills
Individual/Group sessions provided
Emphasis on developing coping skills with positive supports
Life Skills

Besides the academic nature of the school programs, students are instructed in practical and functional living skills in order to prepare them for future adult environments in the home, community and work. These programs include:

• Pre-vocational skills
• Career exploration
• Activities of Daily Living
• Community-Based Instruction
• Self-Care skills
• Leisure and recreational skills
• Functional math, such learning time and money skills
• Functional reading, such as learning to complete job applications and read bus schedules
• Work-related behaviors
• Shopping skills
• Cooking skills
• Laundry skills
• School to Work Transition Program

Our program provides mandated and essential “school to work” transition services for 14 to 21-year old students. Each school employs a dedicated Structured Learning Experience Coordinator. We provide classroom instruction in:

• Academic Survival Skills
• Career Possibilities
• The Job Application Process
• Appropriate Social Skills
• Activities of Daily Living

Our program provides the student with the experience of working at a job with the school setting. Each student is provided with on-the-job training. The student’s time at work is recorded and his or her job performance is
evaluated. This work experience helps the students to develop the work and social skills that are necessary prior to their placement at a job site in the local community. The students gain school-based work experience in the following areas:

• Maintenance Services
• Office and Clerical Work
• Delivery Services
• Inventory of Supplies
• Development of Small Businesses
• Food Services
• Cashier Skills
• Sales Associates

Students are given the opportunity to work at a local participating business that has agreed to partner with us.
Our staff works closely with the personnel of each business prior to and during the job placement. An Employment Specialists from our staff accompanies each student to the job site to assist them in performing their required tasks. They also ensure appropriate interactions with co-workers and a supervisor. The students gain community based work experience at the following types of work sites:

• Offices
• Retail Stores
• Chain Stores
• Restaurants
• Libraries
• Plant Nursery

The school staff is committed to assisting students in acquiring the skills that will enable them to live independently, to be actively involved in their communities and be able to find employment and the appropriate supports.

Contact Information:

Anne Gunteski
Harbor School
240 Broad Street
Eatontown, NJ
agunteski@harborschool.com
732-544-9394

School Website:harborschool.com