Academics
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| Students in Foundations program learn word recognition |
Students practice fine motor skills using specialized writing tools |
Play is an important social learning tool integrated into all our programs |
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"Working as a classroom teacher at the League School for the past eight years, I have found that one of the most beneficial parts of my job is the support from a variety of team members. Every classroom is supported by a behavior specialist, a speech pathologist, an occupational therapist, a vocational coordinator and a social worker. Having the opportunity to sit down with knowledgeable professionals each week and talk about strategies that can be implemented in my classroom has been invaluable to my students and me." – Carla Dyer, Transition Teacher
“My son has been a student at the League School, after many years in public school. He was no longer able to get adequate special ed services. I have to say that as a parent I have never been happier about my son’s education. The entire staff from front office to teachers to school nurse, everyone who is associated with the League School is wonderful. I know that my son loves to go to school every day and that has never been. We all love League School.” – Mother of R.
“We focus on each student as an individual, designing a program that best meets their needs. The League School utilizes a variety of targeted teaching strategies in order to ensure that our students make measurable progress in the areas of social communication, academics, behavior, life skills, vocational skills and occupational therapy. It is important to us that we educate the whole child in order to give them the tools they need to successfully navigate our world.” – Frank Gagliardi, Interim Director
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Technology in the Classroom
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| Students use PDAs to help them make appropriate decisions |
Specialized computer programs help students master their individual academic challenges |
SMART Board technology promotes interaction in the classroom |
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| "I have been using the SMART Board with my students and it is an excellent tool for teaching new skills and maintaining those previously learned. I am able to create dynamic lessons that address each student's specific skills and needs, such as helping eye and hand coordination, using the Internet to research topics, and allowing students who have difficulty writing on flat surfaces to write on a vertical surface." – Kaitlyn Salem, Transition Teacher |
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Social Activities and School Events
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| Student Council is responsible for organizing school-wide events and activities; this one is Red Sox Day for both fans and non-believers |
The Valentine's Day dance is one of many social events throughout the year. "Student Council gives me a chance to learn how to plan events."– Arthur, a former League Student |
Our Halloween costume parade breaks up the academic day. "I can bring my ideas to life." – Nick, a League Student |
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| "The Student Council gives students an active voice in improving their school experience. They meet every month to discuss and plan school-wide activities including dances and sports team celebrations." – Angie Flannery, Team Leader and Content Area Teaching (CAT) Teach |
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Vocational Program – On the Job
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| The Hawk's Nest school store teaches students social pragmatics, work ethic and money skills |
Students work throughout the school stocking vending machines, cleaning and recycling to gain job experience |
Students learn social interaction and work skills at Hawk's Nest |
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“Our vocational program is designed to build functional skills to prepare students for the working world. We provide both school- and community-based work programs, from cooking for school events in our professional kitchen and operating our school store to volunteering at Mass Audubon and paid placements at local CVS stores. Our goal is for each student to develop a resume of work skills, including teamwork, independence, confidence and pride in doing a good job.” – Paul Larter, Vocational Director
"The League School helped me to prepare for my job at CVS, like how to be responsible, to be on time and use a time clock, to be polite, follow directions and stay calm. I've worked at CVS for three years and I'm really good at stocking, cleaning, vacuuming, sweeping and pricing. The school even taught me how to make my own bank deposits with my paycheck." – Evan, a 2008 League School graduate |
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Life Skills
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| Cooking in our state-of-the-art kitchen gives students practical experience and an opportunity to work together with classmates in a fun environment |
We also work on nutrition, organization, budgeting, food safety and even math skills- doubling recipes for cooking for a group- when we're in the kitchen |
Identifying and counting money at the Hawk's Nest store gives students a chance to apply the skills they learn in the classroom to real-life situations. – Lauren, a League student |
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| "The League School's store, the Hawk's Nest, gives students the opportunity to develop a wide range of functional skills. Communications is a key focus, from relaying a basic greeting to asking the price of a product. While student workers learn to make change and stock the shelves, student customers learn how to make selections, budget and wait in line. Practicing in the store helps students for community work and shopping experiences." – Mary Gray, Pathfinder Teacher |
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Residences
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| Our Walpole House is just off our campus on Moosehill Road |
Our large colonial in Norwood is in a quiet neighborhood close to downtown shops for convenient outings |
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"The League School works hard to ensure that our residential students have growth opportunities and enjoy positive experiences. The students have many options for community involvement through programs like Special Olympics and through everyday activities like shopping, day trips and outdoor play. Families are encouraged to participate in these activities as well." – Brian Linton, Residence Quality Assurance Manager
"Each student has responsibility for household chores including laundry, dishes and keeping their rooms neat. Students also work on IEP goals carried over to the residences, including daily living skills, communication, fine motor, money management, leisure and community skills." – Tracy Souza, Residence Quality Assurance Manager |
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Our Campus
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| The League School building and grounds were designed for and by our population to meet their unique sensory and environmental needs |
Leisure time on our playground re-energizes students |
Our school is located on 12 scenic acres in Walpole, Massachusetts |
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Sensory Integration
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Our occupational therapy gym helps students with their sensory needs. "OT helps my engine reach 'just right!'" – Michael, a League School student
"Like all programs at the League School, physical education is designed to develop students not only physically but also mentally, socially and emotionally through unique situations and experiences. During PE, we teach discipline, cooperation, safety and organization. We also emphasize character development, including respect, responsibility, caring, honesty and healthy lifestyles." – Matthew Thomson, Adapted Physical Education Teacher |
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The Arts
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| Fall and spring music shows bookend our year-long music program |
Students have a broad choice of instruments to play in our dedicated music room |
Our student artwork displays the creativity of our students |
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| "By having art classes as part of the standard curriculum, it allows all our students another way to express themselves. The children participate and truly enjoy having this different way to be creative and to be themselves." – Bob Emin, Art Teacher |
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Field Trips – Into the Community
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| A few classes get together to ride the T into Boston for a museum day |
A class practices community and
cooperation skills on a field trip to the zoo |
Our annual apple picking trip is a favorite of the entire school |
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| “Over the years our son has been at League, he has grown and changed so much. You gave us support and hope when we needed it and rejoiced in his achievements. But, most of all, you taught us to enjoy him for who he is.” – Parent of J. |
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Worldwide Recognition
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| Japanese educators learn from League School staff about how to address needs of students with autism |
Head of Autism school in Argentina visits League to exchange ideas and expertise |
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| Known nationally and internationally in the Autism Spectrum education community, League School is proud to share its expertise with visitors. League School’s multi-disciplinary approach, as well as our specialized facility attracts professionals far and wide for observation and consultation. |
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Graduation and Beyond
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| "When I came to League School, I never talked, was too shy and I built barriers to protect myself. I would not be going to college without the League School helping me to break down those mental barriers. I like what I've accomplished and have great memories." – Tim, a 2008 League School graduate |
Evan, a 2008 League School graduate, has enrolled in a special Boston-based Music program for students with autism |
On graduation day, Evan and his family enjoyed the ceremony which was also attended by his classmates and teachers. Graduation festivities included speeches by fellow students, former teachers and cake! |
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