Overview of Programs and Services
The Academy Learning Center (ALC) prides itself on high quality educational programs and services that make a positive difference in the lives of students. The goals of the curricula are designed to help students reach their fullest potential in terms achieving their maximum ability to live independent and participate in family, work and community life.
Autism Spectrum Disorders
The Program for students with Autism is based on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis, including Verbal Behavior techniques. It serves approximately 80 students with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) in a minimum of a 2:1 student to staff ratio. An intensive and individualized program is provided for all students.
Student Selection Criteria
Classified students from 3-21 years, with a Pervasive Developmental Disability (PDD) which significantly impacts language, behavior and social interaction, and is generally evident before the age of three.
Multiple Disabilities
The Program for Students with Multiple Disabilities serves approximately 50 students with moderate to severe Cognitive, Neurological, and Medical and Orthopedic disabilities. The major focus is on the development of independent functional skills in language, academic, social and vocation areas. Medical monitoring, seizure management, and dysphagia interventions are available. Program staff work closely with parents in an intensive and individualized model.
Student Selection Criteria
Classified students, pursuant to 6A:14 ages 3-21, who require placement in the following types of special class programs:Multiple Disabilities, Cognitive Impairments, Other classifications as appropriate
Specialized Curriculum
Speech and Language; Social, Career and Life Skills;Social Studies;Language Arts; Literacy;Math;Consumer; Family;Science; Curriculum;Health; Physical Education;Visual and Performing Arts, and Technology.
Specialized Services
Augmentative Communication,Computer Assisted Instruction, Nursing, Transitional/Inclusion Support Parent Training,Home Visits, Music and Art
Related Services
Speech/Language, Occupational and Physical Therapy, Adaptive Physical Education
Instructional Program
Academic Instruction,Language of Communication, Activities of Daily Living;Leisure/Play,Pre-Vocational,Community-based Instruction (CBI);Fine & Gross Motor, Music and Art
Teaching Strategies
Applied Behavior Analysis; Parent/Staff Collaboration; Individual and Small Group Instruction; Daily Data Collection; Incidental Learning; Verbal Behavior; Community-based Instruction(CBI) and Home programming/parent training.
Staffing
Teachers of students with Disabilities; Instructional Aides; Speech/Language Specialists; Occupational and Physical therapists; Case Manager; Transition Specialist; Nurse; Adaptive Physical Ed., Vocational, Music, and Art Teachers
School Calendar
September to June 10 month program; Six week Extended School Year (ESY) Program
Visiting Academy Learning Center
Visits by resident child study team members and parents/ guardians are always welcome. School personnel or parents interested in more information are encouraged to contact:
ALC Principal: Stacy L. Rieger
srieger@escnj.us 732-605-9100 Ext. 4020
ALC Supervisor: Nicole Paturzo
npaturzo@escnj.us 732-605
Referral Process
Inquiries from New Jersey public school districts can be addressed to the Principal or Case Manager. Written referrals with the student's child study team records are reviewed prior to a scheduled intake meeting. Resident child study team members, parents/guardians and students are requested to attend the intake interview.
Inquiries can be made and/or student records sent to:
Nicole Paturzo
Supervisor, Academy Learning Center
145 Pergola Avenue
Monroe Township, NJ 08831
(732)-605-9100
npaturzo@escnj.us
The Educational Services Commission of New Jersey
1690 Stelton Road
Piscataway, NJ 08854-5956
(732) 777- 9848, EXT. 3200
All ALC programs have been approved by the New Jersey Department of Education.