Skills Development

Skills

(Grades K-12)

Students with moderate to severe disabilities are served in the Skills Development program. Opportunities for regular education experiences are available. Students take NYS Assessments unless IEP (Individualized Education Program) indicates NYS Alternate Assessment. Modifications and adaptations are made to the curricula to accommodate individual student achievement levels. Related services are provided as indicated on the IEP. As the secondary level, Skills Development students exhibit moderate disabilities and work toward a Local Diploma.

Students take required NYS Regents exams and RCTS. Community-Based students at the upper level exhibit moderate to severe disabilities and work on meeting Common Core Learning Standards.

Students with disabilities will have the option to earn a New York State (NYS) Career Development and Occupational Studies (CDOS) Commencement Credential. This credential will recognize each individual student’s preparation and skills for post-school employment. For students with severe disabilities who have been selected to participate in the NYS Alternate Assessment (NYSAA), these students will graduate with the Skills and Achievement Commencement Credential in lieu of an IEP diploma. These students are not eligible for the NYS CDOS Commencement Credential.

Secondary students also have the opportunity to participate in Career and Technical Education programs, such as Career Exploration or Vocational Tech Prep, and/or supported work placements. Parental involvement is highly encouraged. The staffing ratio is 12:1:1 with additional support personnel as indicated on the IEP.

For further information, please contact Laurie Ann Ross, Coordinator, at 315-361-5897 regarding the elementary program grades K-6.

For further information, please contact Carla Fountain, Coordinator, at 315-361-5960 regarding the secondary program grades 7-12.