Academics
The teaching/learning process at Paradigm Therapeutic Day School is designed to provide a structured academic program that is in compliance with state standards, while being sensitive to students who come to the school with years of significant academic, social, and emotional challenges. The “Competency Based Learning” model meets this requirement by giving students a chance to move from skill competency to skill competency at their own pace, developing self-confidence, and self-esteem as they meet with success. Pathways to competency are built with explicit and measurable learning objectives that align with the NJSLA standards.
Assessment through various measurement systems, such as research assignments, book reports, tests, public speaking activities, art or music projects, allows teachers to evaluate performance standards: this evaluation leads to planning, delivering and assessing new learning goals and objectives. The “behavioral ecology” of the school is designed to support a safe emotional and physical environment for each student. Each classroom is structured to not only support the instructional needs of each student, but is also mindful of the social and emotional needs of each student, by having small learning environments that allows students to work on independent projects, or to access online instructional technologies.
The Paradigm
Difference
Transition
At Paradigm, it is our mission to assist students with planning their future after graduation. Postsecondary planning is a process that helps our students to know and understand themselves by digging deeper into their interests, abilities, values, and experiences. Our transition services include career exploration counseling, workplace readiness training, self-advocacy training, and work-based learning experiences. We collaborate with state agencies such as the Division of Vocational Rehabilitative Services(DVRS) and All People Learning (APL) to provide these services to students. We also host a College & Career Fair each Spring for students to gain exposure to colleges, universities, trade schools, employers, and military recruiters.
Counseling
The Clinical Program at Paradigm Therapeutic Day School works seamlessly with all of our programs, and is built to go beyond typical counseling standards. Through regular, individually planned therapeutic services, each student is supported in their efforts to develop the skills needed to effectively manage stressful situations, recognize triggers, and clinical symptoms, thereby greatly reducing the negative impact on the student’s education.
In accordance each student’s IEP, individual scheduled counseling is provided weekly. In addition, counseling is also available to a student at his or her request, or if our staff believe the student will benefit from additional counseling sessions to address and reduce stress. Group counseling, with a focus on skill building such as, stress management, anger management, social skills, team building, and communication, is also provided. In addition, we provide “creative arts therapy” by our certified music and art therapists. Finally, our consulting psychiatrist provides additional support in the form of consultations and psychiatric evaluations as part of our interview process.
Extended School Year
Paradigm Therapeutic Day School offers an extended school year program to all of our students. The purpose of the program is to continue therapeutic services and provide routine and structure to students who may need support in the summer. ESY is strongly recommended to new students to assist in transitioning to our program. All activities are project based and designed to support learning and creative arts.
