Class Descriptions
Classes are taught by a neurodivergent instructor with experience with Augmented and Alternative Communication (AAC) as a part-time user themselves and helper for their child. The instructor is CPR/First Aid certified.
Each class takes a multifaceted, hands-on, and multi-sensory approach with intent and consideration to provide a neuro-affirming, supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students, especially the autistic and neurodiverse community.
​
This includes smaller classes, low-stimulation environment, and dedicated sensory space with our exclusive mobile calming corner, fidgets, sensory bins, and more.
Also, breaking down tasks into smaller steps, visual aids, and literal and consistent instructions for activities and experiments.
Additionally, sensory, movement, and brain breaks are incorporated into each lesson and utilized as needed. Classes are designed for students to work at their own pace, yet in a collaborative space that allows for organic opportunities for social interaction and learning.
Class instruction will foster an intrinsic learning process to support students in discovering their own strengths and interests. This approach involves tapping into students' natural curiosity and interest in the subject matter, and empowering them to take ownership of their learning.
​
Students are encouraged to explore their unique learning styles through play-based education with opportunities to work on self regulation and communication (in whatever form), interpersonal skills such as empathy, emotional awareness, self and situational awareness, self advocacy and boundary setting in a safe and understanding environment.
​
“Kid’s do well when they can” - Ross W. Greene
Charter funds accepted from:
Mission Vista Academy
Semester Classes
Fundamentals of Learning With Felines
This class uses a multisensory approach using the study of felines (both big and small, domesticated and not) to explore and help meet K-12 standards. This includes mathematics, life sciences, language arts, and geography. This class will feature real domesticated cats throughout including those from local shelters, rescues, and our very own Seisal Yosef. Field trip opportunities for further learning available.
Learning With Lego
This one-hour class uses a multisensory, open-ended, engaging, and imaginative approach using LEGO to develop a range of important skills and knowledge in a variety of areas, including science, technology, engineering, art, and math to meet an array of K-12 standards. Includes challenges, games, and opportunities to enter into end-of-year competition with FIRST LEGO LEAGUE. Field trip opportunities for further learning available.
Learning Through Gaming
This class uses a multisensory, open-ended, engaging and imaginative approach through games to explore and help meet K-12 standards.
This includes mathematics, science, language arts, social studies, geography, and social studies.
Immersive Science
Students are introduced to basic concepts of Science with an emphasis on weather and natural disasters such as seasonal changes, weather patterns, and the effects of natural disasters on people and the environment. Emphasizing the importance of understanding the science behind these phenomena and developing strategies to prepare for and respond to them. For example, students may learn about how hurricanes form, how tornadoes are created, and what to do in the event of an earthquake.
*This is a niche class geared toward student learners who have a high interest in natural disasters, weather, and immersive science.
Arts, Crafts, and Tie-Dying
This class uses a multisensory, open-ended, engaging and imaginative approach to K-12 Arts.
Through the arts, this class aims to develop students' creativity, critical thinking, communication, fine motor skills, and collaboration skills through the study of the arts, crafts, and tie-dying.
Projects will vary.
Creative Writing, Journaling, and Literature
Perfect for resistant readers or writers, this class uses a multisensory imaginative approach to K-12 Language Arts standards and creative writing, journaling, yearbook and newspaper writing, and focuses on developing students' reading, writing, comprehension and critical thinking skills, as well as their ability to connect with and appreciate literature.
Topics explored include the writing process and genres of writing such as personal narrative, persuasive writing, literary analysis, and informational writing strategies to create engaging and effective writing. Students will conduct research and gather information from a variety of sources to support their writing and learn to use language effectively and appropriately in their writing.
Additionally, students will touch on analyzing the structure, elements, and meaning of literary texts and will respond to literature in a variety of ways, including through writing, poetry, discussion, and creative expression. In turn, students will connect literature to their own experiences and the world around them.