About the Program
Founded in 1999, Saint Catherine Academy is a state-approved education program for students with disabilities, ages 5 to 21, that is part of Saint Catherine Center. Students come to the Academy to learn, belong, and be recognized. We meet each student where he or she is, helping them to develop interpersonal and academic skills and take advantage of vocational experiences—all of which builds life skills needed for greater independence. Our faculty are state-certified professional educators supported by experienced instructional assistants.
Academics
Using a combination of individual instruction and small group sessions, as well as assistive technology, the Academy’s certified special education teachers are able to assess progress and plan necessary accommodations for each student to maximize potential.
Emphasis is placed in developing and maintaining language arts skills and math proficiency.
Vocational Experience
Through vocational experiences, students have opportunities to prepare to be productive, independent, and participating adults to the extent that each individual’s abilities will allow. Job skill development becomes part of individualized plans at age 16.
In vocational classes led by a full-time Vocational Coordinator, teachers and job coaches introduce workplace vocabulary, different job opportunities, and hands-on work experience within the school environment. Onsite work experience includes office work, sorting and packaging, assembly line activities, and maintenance. Through community placements offsite, students are also exposed to different workplace environments and have the chance to develop multiple skills.
Using a combination of individual instruction and small group sessions, as well as assistive technology, the Academy’s certified special education teachers are able to assess progress and plan necessary accommodations for each student to maximize potential.
Emphasis is placed in developing and maintaining language arts skills and math proficiency.
Social Skills
The ability to understand and manage one’s own emotions while understanding and responding to other people is crucial for a more independent life.
Direct teaching, modeling, and guided practice, along with consistency across the school, help students with disabilities to develop these skills. Engagement with age-level peers through family and school relationships is encouraged.
Life Skills
The development of life skills is integrated into the curriculum and all activities in collaboration with occupational, physical, speech therapists, and social workers.
Our facility includes a Life Skills Apartment with a kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, and washer/dryer. Activities in the apartment, such as making the bed, setting the table, emptying the dishwasher, and preparing food give students the opportunity to learn and practice in an environment similar to home.
Creative Arts
