Education / Instruction

Community-Based Instruction
Community activities are an integral part of the DLC educational program. These experiences provide training in safety and functional life skills. Students learn how to interact with community members and how to access goods and services. Community-based instruction is designed to increase independence and provide consistent opportunities for the generalization of academic, social, and functional daily living skills. Written parental permission is required for a child to participate in the community instructional program.

Community Trips
Community trips are planned throughout the school year to supplement and enrich the curriculum and programs of the school. They provide an opportunity for students to practice and generalize skills learned in school into the natural settings as well as to address skills and programs that cannot realistically be addressed in school. Parents are notified of all community trips and provided with the pertinent information. Written parental permission is required for a child to participate in the community trip. Classroom staff and therapists provide supervision. Parents are invited to attend the community trips. Parents may follow the bus or meet their child's class at the trip site.

Job Sampling
Job sampling opportunities are available for students ages 16 and older to provide training at actual job sites in community work environments. DLC staff members accompany each student for skill assessment and individual on the job training and support. Experiencing job opportunities in a variety of settings enables students to practice important work, communication and social skills needed to succeed in the workplace.

Vocational Education
The Vocational Education program is designed to provide students with the skills they will need for independent living and for employment in the community. In addition to specific job skills, vocational education training emphasizes important work skills, including task completion, following schedules, and appropriate work and social behaviors. An apartment setting is available for students to learn daily living and domestic skills.

Technology
Computer access is available in each classroom. When needed, assistive devices such as alternative keyboards, touch screens, and talking word processors are used to provide access to computers. Educational software supplements the curriculum in the areas of language development, academics, keyboarding, data entry, order processing, and graphic design. Internet access is also available for students.

Transition Services
Transition services are designed to prepare students for home, work, and community life after school. Instruction focuses on functional academics, daily living skills, vocational education, recreation/leisure skills, and career exploration. Parents and students are provided with information and resources regarding adult services.