Pathfinders

Overview of Pathfinders

The Pathfinders Program, comprised of six to eight classrooms, supports students with developmental delays and/or social, emotional or behavioral challenges.  Students benefit from smaller class sizes and instruction that is slower paced with many varied, opportunities to learn, rehearse, and demonstrate concepts. Materials such as pictures, manipulatives, audio and video supplements are used alongside traditional academic teaching tools. 

In both the classroom and therapeutic milieus, students work on communication, social, and self-regulation skills through collaborative activities and projects with their peers.  All groups have classroom-wide Positive Behavior Support goals and incentives and look forward to shopping at the Shore Store weekly.  Some students may have individual or group therapeutic or social skills services as part of their IEP’s.  

Functional life skills are a focus in all grades, but are particularly emphasized in middle, high and post-secondary classrooms.  Pathfinder students operate “Pop-Up” shops where hand-made crafts and food items may be purchased or coffee delivery service is provided.  Students get the full experience and skills associated with shopping for ingredients/materials, preparing items, and providing effective customer service. In all activities, students are supported to develop self-determination skills so they can pursue the paths that interest them most.