Bergen County Special Services School District 540 Farview Avenue Paramus, 07652 http://bcss.bergen.org 2015–2016

The mission of the Bergen County Special Services School District is to effectively address the unique social, emotional, physical, intellectual, and career needs of students by creating positive, stimulating, and encouraging learning environments in schools, homes, and communities. Through dynamic collaborations with families and artnershipsp with community resources, the District will enable each learner to realize his or her highest potential and to become a self-directed and contributing member of society. Programs and Services ergen County Special Services is a unique Autism Continuum county-wide public school district that B The Autism Continuum is designed to meet the academic, social, was established through an act passed by the behavioral, and vocational needs of students who are classified New Jersey Legislature in 1971. Distinguished as with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome, Pervasive the first Special Services school district in New Developmental Disorder, and Pervasive Developmental Jersey, Bergen County is now one of eight such Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified. Learners attending our districts funded by county, state, and sending programs range in age from three to twenty-one. We offer our schools. The District offers a broad spectrum students highly individualized instructional formats based rogram s of special education programs and services for upon the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA). children and adults with disabilities. These empirically-based teaching methodologies, according P to ongoing research efforts, are the most effective educational Students are placed in the least restrictive interventions for students with autism. Our school services environment according to developmental include occupational, physical, and speech therapies; family and chronological levels. Flexible and highly training; home program coordination; and augmentative individualized learning environments are communication assessment. Programs include language, designed to meet individual needs. BCSS offers social, behavioral, and academic development. Students enrolled chool local school districts a wide range of programs in these programs are usually authorized to substitute the state’s S incorporating the most effective and up-to- DLM and Alternative Proficiency Assessment for state-required date technology available to meet the needs of standardized tests. The secondary program utilizes the support services of a job coach and an industrial arts teacher to assist students with diverse learning disabilities. The students with internships at local businesses and employment district also offers an extensive array of services in local communities. to facilitate the transition from school to adult life, including employment and/or postsecondary Bergen County Special Services holds membership in Autism education. A team of qualified professionals New Jersey, Inc. conducts individual assessments to develop personalized, holistic plans ensuring each student’s successful integration into full community living. Behavioral Continuum The school programs at Bergen County Special Services are Programs within this continuum are designed for students with organized into five separate divisions known as continuums. emotional and/or learning disabilities who require educational, Each continuum includes a broad range of special education supportive, and/or ongoing counseling to develop positive classifications, and is designed for pre-Kindergarten through social and emotional interactions and, ultimately, the ability to secondary students. self-monitor their personal growth and development. Students learn to assume responsibility for their actions by understanding consequences of behavior, predicting outcomes of behavior, and Services for Non-Public School Students exercising control of behavior. New Jersey’s Chapter 192 and Chapter 193 programs are offered The Behavioral Skills Continuum is firmly rooted in the to eligible students enrolled full-time in nonpublic elementary commitment to provide an environment where all students and secondary schools in New Jersey. Chapter 192 programs can experience success and ultimately transition to become provide auxiliary services such as compensatory education, productive, self-supporting citizens. Each site provides a full English as a second language, and home instruction. Chapter array of traditional and functional academic courses, as well 193 programs provide remedial services such as evaluation and as personal, social, career and employment experiences. These determination of eligibility for special education and related supportive settings are designed to facilitate student learning services, supplementary instruction, speech-language services, potential and, simultaneously, to equip students with the skills and home instruction from certified teachers employed by BCSS. they need to effectively make decisions, solve problems, and assume responsibility. Curriculum in these programs is aligned The 192/193 Program is staffed by approximately 64 professionals to New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards; students who provide services to classified and general education students in participate in all state-mandated testing. non-public schools throughout Bergen County. Forty-two highly qualified teachers provide Comp Ed (basic skills) to students who fall below the minimum levels of proficiency on standardized tests, as well as Supplemental Instruction (SI) to classified students. Two ESL teachers instruct students for whom English is a second Deaf and Hard of Hearing Continuum language, to ensure their success both academically and socially. Additionally, twenty certified speech/language specialists in the The Deaf and Hard of Hearing Continuum offers programs in Program evaluate and provide treatment for children with speech Midland Park and Hackensack, and is one of the largest and and language needs. most comprehensive of its kind in New Jersey. Students, who range in age from three to twenty-one, are educated either through an Auditory-Oral approach or a Total Communication approach. The Auditory-Oral track focuses on the development of listening and oral speech skills, while the Total Vocational Shared-Time Programs Communication track incorporates sign language and finger spelling in addition to speech, speech-reading, and auditory The Bergen County Special Services School District amplification. Both approaches emphasize the development of offers shared-time vocational programs at its Paramus communication skills through intensive speech and language campus for students in grades eleven, twelve, and twelve training in conjunction with the use of residual hearing. plus. Students are currently enrolled in Sales & Customer Since the programs are located in public schools, students have Service, Hospitality & Food Service, and Child Care the opportunity to interact with age-appropriate peers who Assistant training programs. Additional research regarding are not hearing impaired. A complete array of placements is the employment outlook for various occupations will available, from self-contained to full inclusion (mainstreamed). determine additional programs that BCSS will develop and Collaborative teaching, participation in lunch and recreation implement over the next two years. periods, and a full spectrum of academic and extracurricular activities are among the inclusion options offered. All students are eligible to participate in general education, physical Sales & Customer Service education, sports, music, art, and library classes. A variety of Designed to prepare participants for entry-level retail sales and cultural enrichment activities, such as performances by the customer service-related positions, this comprehensive pro- National Theatre of the Deaf, are offered throughout the year. gram provides support for successful entry and advancement Curriculum in these programs is aligned to the New Jersey Core in service-related careers. Customer service, sales, and literacy Curriculum Content Standards, with students participating standards have been integrated into a fully-developed Sales and in all state-mandated testing. Additional support, including Service Curriculum based on the National Retail Federation audiological services, ongoing case management services, and Foundation (NRFF)’s Sales and Service Learning Program. sign language classes for families and staff, is provided. A unique component of the program, the new Crossroads Gift Shop, will allow students to work in a retail setting, and provide opportunities for hands-on experience in marketing, Life Skills Continuum merchandising, inventory, and customer service. Programs within the Life Skills Continuum offer education and related services to students who exhibit cognitive and/or physical Hospitality & Food Service disabilities. Emphasis is placed upon intensive instruction in This comprehensive program is designed to prepare participants age-appropriate independent living skills, generalization of for entry-level hospitality and food-service related positions, skills across multiple environments, and community-based and provide support for successful entry and advancement functional instruction. Career education and development of in food service and hospitality-related careers. Food service, social skills enable students to become contributing members of preparation, and hospitality coursework have been integrated society. Job coaches assist students in obtaining and maintaining into a fully-developed Hospitality and Food Service Curriculum. employment. Students and families are linked to adult service This program encompasses food specific areas including food providers so they can continue to receive the supports needed prep, food sanitation and safety, hospitality, and workplace to succeed in life. Students typically participate in DLM and readiness. Students study aspects of the field through direct Alternative Proficiency Assessment testing. application and development of skills in practical situations.

Child Care Assistant Preschool Continuum This innovative new shared-time vocational program will Several Bergen County Special Services school sites have partner with the BELA (Bergen Early Learning Alliance) preschool programs that serve children who have been identified Daycare Center to prepare students for positions in childcare. with specific needs. For other preschool children who have been Students will gain experience supervising and guiding identified with special education needs, inclusion in a general preschoolers, as well as assisting with planning and guiding preschool classroom is the best placement. These students activities, daily routines, transitions, and meals. Curriculum can be placed in a typical early childhood education center, includes health and safety; study of physical, social, emotional, provided with special education supports, and be educated with and intellectual development of children; soft skills; and their typically developing peers. The program offers a full-day structured learning opportunities. Students in the program will integrated preschool class with the goal of transitioning students complete First Aid and CPR training. to an integrated kindergarten class. Preschool classes are offered at Brownstone School, Washington Elementary School, Hearing Impaired Program (HIP) at Midland Park and HIP at Union For further information, please contact: Street School, and the Norman A. Bleshman Regional Day School. Patti Wojtowicz Please contact the individual schools for further information 201-343-6000 Ext. 6506/[email protected] regarding their respective programs. WASHINGTON NEW BRIDGES MIDDLE SCHOOL/ Autism Continuum HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM educates students with ASD, AS, PDD, and PDD-NOS, ranging in age from eleven WASHINGTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL educates stu- to twenty-one. The program provides highly individualized dents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Asperger’s Syn- instructional formats within an applied behavior analysis drome (AS), Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD), and framework, with application focused on community, work, Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified and educational environments. The program utilizes the (PDD-NOS), who range in age from three to twelve. The support services of full-time job coaches and an industrial school program utilizes comprehensive applied behavior arts teacher, who work within the integrated educational rogram s analysis (ABA) strategies that focus on language, social, be- model on site. Staff support students in internships at local havior, and academic development. Behavioral support and businesses, as well as employment experiences within P intervention are provided on a daily basis. Transitioning local communities. Students have the opportunity to students to the least restrictive educational setting with ap- generalize skills obtained in the school setting into home propriate supports as needed is a program priority. and community settings. This generalization process is Contact information: Jan Borda, 201-343-6000 ext. 6461/ conducted systematically with family participation and [email protected]. professional behavior supports. Address: Rocco Montesano Campus, 355 East Ridgewood Contact Information: Jan Borda, 201-343-6000 ext. 6461/ chool Avenue, Paramus, NJ 07652. [email protected].

S Address: 296 East Ridgewood Avenue, Paramus, NJ 07652. WASHINGTON @ EMERSON educates students who are classified with ASD, AS, PDD, and PDD-NOS in a traditional elementary school environment. Students range in age from seven to twelve. The program provides comprehensive ABA services, offering students a transition model toward the least restrictive educational settings. Emphasis is on higher- order language and social skills as well as self-regulation. Contact information: Jan Borda, 201-343-6000 ext. 5850/ [email protected]. Address: c/o Patrick Villano Elementary School, 100 High Street, Emerson, NJ 07630.

WASHINGTON @ FRANKLIN LAKES, located within Franklin Avenue Middle School, educates students with ASD, AS, PDD, PDD-NOS within a typical school setting. Students range in age from twelve to fourteen. The school program provides comprehensive ABA teaching Behavioral Continuum methodologies in a mainstream setting, offering students a transition model toward the least restrictive educational BROWNSTONE SCHOOL educates preschool through settings. Emphasis on higher-order language and social eighth-grade students with behavioral and/or learning skills and self-regulation is a priority. Behavioral support disabilities who require educational supports and intensive and intervention is provided on a daily basis in all counseling to develop positive social and emotional interac- instructional environments. tions and gain the ability to self-monitor personal growth Contact Information: Jan Borda, 201-343-6000 ext 5850/ and development. Program highlights include intensive [email protected]. literacy instruction, the Responsive Classroom, and a struc- Address: c/o Franklin Avenue Middle School, 755 Franklin tured behavior management program. Ave., Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417. Contact Information: David Perez, 201-343-6000 ext. 8670/ [email protected]. WASHINGTON @ MAHWAH educates students with Address: c/o St. Philip the Apostle School, 492 Saddle ASD, AS, PDD, and PDD-NOS within Mahwah High River Road, Saddle Brook, NJ 07663. School. Students range in age from fourteen to twenty- one. The program provides comprehensive ABA teaching EVERGREEN PROGRAM educates students in grades methodologies in a mainstream environment, offering nine through twelve with behavioral and/or psychiatric students a transition model toward the least restrictive disabilities. The program gives students the opportunity to educational setting. Emphasis on higher-order language mainstream into core or elective courses, while providing and social skills, as well as self-regulation, is a priority. the educational and extensive emotional supports each Vocational services, including job coaches, are available. student needs to be successful in a mainstream high school. Contact Information: Jan Borda, 201-343-6000 ext. 5850/ Contact information: Dr. Seema Lodhi, 201-302-5200 [email protected]. ext. 5620/[email protected]. Address: c/o , 50 Ridge Road, Address: c/o , 100 Christie Heights Mahwah, NJ 07430. Street, Leonia, NJ 07605. S ehavioral ontinuum (cont.) eaf and ard of B C D H chool GATEWAY/PADOVANO HIGH SCHOOL is a secondary earing ontinuum school program designed to educate students with H C behavioral and/or learning disabilities with a need for ELEMENTARY HEARING IMPAIRED PROGRAM (HIP) improved coping and/or social skills. Major emphasis is at MIDLAND PARK educates children ages three through placed on career exploration through internship experiences

grade six through an Auditory-Oral approach. Housed P and employment based on the students’ career interests. in the host district of Midland Park, HIP follows the Students may participate in Physical Education and other

curriculum of the Midland Park Public Schools and offers s rogram core and elective courses at Hackensack High School. students inclusion opportunities and interaction with age- Contact Information: Dr. Seema Lodhi, 201-343-6000 appropriate, non-disabled peers. ext.3502/[email protected]. Contact Information: Kathleen Treni, 201-343-6000 ext. 6480/ Address: 293-295 Main Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601. [email protected]. Address: Godwin/Highland Schools, 41 East Center Street, NOVA ELEMENTARY, an inclusion program at the Villano Midland Park, NJ 07432. School in Emerson, educates third- through sixth-grade students with behavioral and/or learning disabilities in a ELEMENTARY HEARING IMPAIRED PROGRAM (HIP) semi-contained setting with mainstream opportunities. at UNION STREET SCHOOL provides preschool through Contact Information: Dr. Seema Lodhi, 201-343-6000 eighth-grade students with educational opportunities that ext.5800/[email protected]. promote language, cognition, signed and verbal commu- Address: c/o Patrick A. Villano Elementary School, 100 nication skills, and a strong sense of self-esteem. The pro- High Street, Emerson, NJ 07630. gram utilizes a general education curriculum adapted when needed to meet the unique learning styles of each student. NOVA NORTH educates students with behavioral and/or HIP follows the curriculum of the Hackensack Public School learning disabilities in grades seven to twelve who require District. Students in grades K-8 participate in academic and educational and emotional supports to succeed in a elective classes in the Hackensack Public Schools. mainstream setting. Contact Information: Dr. Candi Reed, 201-343-6000 ext. Contact Information: Dr. Seema Lodhi, 201-343-6000 6400/[email protected]. ext.5812/[email protected]. Address: 334 Union Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601. Address: c/o Emerson Junior/Senior High School, 131 Main Street, Emerson, NJ 07630. SECONDARY HEARING IMPAIRED PROGRAM (SHIP) Midland Park educates students, ages fourteen through NORTH STREET SCHOOL is a comprehensive school-to- twenty-one, from middle school through high school. SHIP careers program combining in-classroom career education is a unique program that offers education for oral students and on-site learning labs with community-based career with mainstreamed classes or small group instruction exploration, internships, and paid employment for students depending on student needs. Students in the program are in grades nine through twelve. The program provides an eligible to participate in school clubs and after-school individualized and highly intensive behavioral management sports. The program follows the system for students with serious behavioral disabilities. General Education curriculum and grading procedures. Contact information: Greg Janz, 201-343-6000 Contact Information: Kathleen Treni, 201-444-8882/201- ext.5501/201-336-3958/[email protected]. 343-6000 Ext. 6490/TTY: 201-444-9308/[email protected]. Address: 200 North Street, Teterboro, NJ 07608 Address: Midland Park Jr./Sr. High School, 250 Prospect Street, Midland Park, NJ 07432. The VENTURE PROGRAM is designed to address the therapeutic and educational needs of students in grades five SECONDARY HEARING IMPAIRED PROGRAM through twelve who have recently been discharged from (SHIP) Hackensack educates students in grades nine through a psychiatric hospital or are currently exhibiting serious twelve. All students are mainstreamed with a teacher of the psychiatric symptoms. Deaf using a Teacher Consultant Model. All course options Contact Information: Dr. Seema Lodhi, 201-343-6000, are available with the additional support of Educational In- ext. 3502/[email protected]. terpreters and a Child Study team. Students in the program Address: 293-295 Main Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601 are eligible to participate in school clubs and after-school sports. SHIP follows the Hackensack High School General Education curriculum and grading procedures. In each main- stream class, students’ communication needs are supported by a combination of sign language, speech, and audition. Contact Information: Dr. Candi Reed, 201-343-6000 ext. 6400/[email protected]. Address: c/o Hackensack High School, 135 First Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601. ext. 3521/[email protected]. Life Skills Continuum Address: c/o Henry P. Becton Regional High School, 120 Paterson Ave, East Rutherford, NJ 07073. NORMAN A. BLESHMAN REGIONAL DAY SCHOOL VISIONS EMERSON educates students in grades educates students ages three through twenty-one with seven through twelve with physical disabilities and/or significant multiple disabilities, offering a comprehen- special health needs in a traditional high school setting. sive academic/functional/career-based curriculum and an All courses are aligned with the NJCCCS; modifications intensive therapy program. Community integration, a Ca-

rogram s are offered. reer Learning Lab, and Model Apartment with integrat- Contact information: Dr. Seema Lodhi, 201-343-6000 ed OT allow students to learn and apply skills in real-life

P ext.5812/[email protected]. settings. The preschool program focuses on a curriculum Address: c/o Emerson Junior/Senior High School, 131 from Curiosity Corner, as well as fosters the integrated Main Street, Emerson, NJ 07630. therapy model. Contact Information: Angela Cupo, 201-343-6000 VISIONS SADDLE BROOK educates students in kin- ext. 6442/[email protected]. dergarten through grade six with physical and/or multi- Address: 333 East Ridgewood Avenue, Paramus, NJ 07652. chool ple disabilities in a barrier-free setting designed to maxi-

S mize inclusion opportunities in a traditional elementary SPRINGBOARD NORTH and SPRINGBOARD and middle school. Therapeutic and Assistive Technology SOUTH provide transition services that include inde- supports are provided to optimize student participation pendent living skills, career exploration, job placement, and success. and social/emotional development for students with dis- Contact information: Grisel Espinosa, 201-343-6000 ext. abilities who have completed a more traditional four- 6541/[email protected]. year high school and need continuing and more intensive Addresses: Elementary, c/o Helen I. Smith School, 30 transition skills development. Using the CEC life-centered Cambridge Avenue, Saddle Brook, NJ 07663; Middle career education curriculum, students learn and practice School, c/o Saddle Brook Middle/High School, 355 all skills in a “home,” in the community, or in the work- Mayhill School, Saddle Brook, NJ 07663. place. The curriculum assists students in obtaining and maintaining employment, obtaining adult supports, and using public transportation or AccessLink. Contact Information: Robert Mortorano, 201-343-6000 ext. 8539/[email protected]. Addresses: Springboard North, 321 East Ridgewood Avenue, Paramus, NJ 07652; Springboard South, 27 Lincoln Place, Garfield, NJ 07026.

TRANSITION CENTER AT WOOD-RIDGE educates students, ages ten through twenty-one, with disabilities who demonstrate delays in the cognitive and behavioral domains. Instruction focuses on developing each student’s independent living skills to their full potential. The Center pro- vides intensive instruction in functional and applied academ- ics, using community-based learning environments to apply Preschool Continuum skills. Highlights include community integration at a variety of community and work sites and job placement with supports. BELA—Bergen Early Learning Alliance—educates Contact Information: Robert Mortorano, 201-343-6000, preschool students with disabilities in an inclusive ext. 3602/[email protected]. education environment within a typical day care setting. Address: 304 Valley Boulevard, Wood-Ridge, NJ 07075. A structured curriculum—Curiosity Corner—related services, and enrichment activities in physical education, VISIONS BECTON educates students with multiple art, and music are all components of this program. disabilities in grades nine through twelve. The Parents also have the option of accessing before- and supportive yet challenging environment maximizes after-school day care services. inclusive opportunities within a traditional high school Contact Information: Tara Bohan, 201-343-6000 ext. setting. The program provides the functional and applied 4079/[email protected]. academic, vocational, and independent living supports Address: 284 Hackensack Avenue (Rear Entrance), needed to optimize student participation in the school, Hackensack, NJ 07601. community, and workplace. Please send Admissions Forms to: BELA, c/o Union Contact Information: Robert Mortorano, 201-343-6000 Street School, 334 Union Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601. S

Consultant Programs chool

In order to serve a greater number of students with disabilities, Bergen County Special Services developed the Consultant Model. These programs involve partnerships between local school districts that have identified a cadre of students with similar educational needs, and BCSS, which provides the staff and services needed to appropriately serve these students within their local schools. Currently, there are five programs operating under this model. P s rogram For more information on Consultant Model Programs, please contact Mitchell Badiner at 201-343-6000 ext. 4070

The BOGOTA PROGRAM educates academically chal- WASHINGTON @ TRI-VALLEY is designed to meet the lenged 7th- and 8th-grade students with multiple disabili- academic, social, behavioral, and vocational needs of stu- ties who require additional support in a mainstream setting. dents, ranging in age from three to twenty-one, with ASD, With a focus on developing educational and motivational AS, PDD, and PDD-NOS. The program offers students strategies that best serve students’ individualized academic highly individualized instructional formats based upon and social needs, the program offers self-contained classes, the principles of ABA. Services include occupational, phys- in-class supports, and mainstreamed classes designed to ical, and speech therapies; family training; home program assist students in transitioning to less-restrictive environ- coordination; and, augmentative communication assess- ments. ment. Programs include language, social, behavioral, and Contact information: Dr. Seema Lodhi, 201-336-5350/ academic development. The secondary program utilizes [email protected]. the support services of a full-time job coach to assist stu- Address: c/o Bogota Junior/Senior High School, 2 Henry dents with internships, as well as employment experiences C. Luthin Place, Bogota, NJ 07603. within local communities. Contact information: Jan Borda, 201-385-8600 ext. 1358 and 1359/[email protected]. The MANCHESTER PROGRAM located within Man- Addresses: c/o Grant School, 100 Grant Avenue, Dumont, chester Regional High School in Haledon, educates ninth- NJ 07628; Lincoln Elementary School, 115 Highview Ave- through twelfth-grade students with multiple disabilities. nue, Bergenfield, NJ 07621; Roy Brown Middle School, 130 Students are educated in a supportive yet challenging envi- S. Washington Avenue, Bergen field, NJ 07621; and, Ber- ronment that is designed to maximize inclusion opportuni- genfield High School, 80 S. Prospect Avenue, Bergenfield, ties within a traditional high school setting. The program NJ 07621. provides the academic, vocational, and behavioral supports needed to optimize student participation in the school, the WASHINGTON @ PASSAIC VALLEY REGIONAL community, and the workplace. HIGH SCHOOL is designed to meet the academic, social, Contact Information: Mitchell Badiner, 973-389-2849/ behavioral, and vocational needs of high school students [email protected]. who are diagnosed with ASD, AS, PDD, and PDD-NOS. Address: c/o Manchester Regional High School, 70 Church The program offers students highly individualized Street, Haledon, NJ 07508. instructional formats based upon the principles of ABA. Services include occupational, physical, and speech WASHINGTON @ HANOVER educates students, ages therapies; family training; home program coordination; seven to nine, classified with Autism Spectrum Disorder and, augmentative communication assessment. Programs (ASD), Asperger’s Syndrome (AS), Pervasive Develop- include language, social, behavioral, and academic mental Disorder (PDD), and Pervasive Development development. Washington @ PVRHS utilizes the support Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS). Located services of a full-time job coach to assist students with within Bee Meadow Elementary School in Whippany, internships, as well as employment experiences within local New Jersey, W@H provides comprehensive applied be- communities. havior analysis (ABA) teaching methodologies in a tradi- Contact information: Jan Borda, 201-385-8600 ext. 1358 tional school environment, offering students a transition and 1359/[email protected]. model toward the least restrictive school setting. Empha- Address: c/o Passaic Valley Regional High School, 100 East sis is on higher-order language and social skills, and self- Main Street, Little Falls, NJ 07424. regulation. Contact information: Jan Borda, 201-343-6000 ext. 5850/ [email protected]. Address: c/o Bee Meadow School, 120 Reynolds Avenue, Whippany, NJ 07981. ergen County Special Services Adult Programs offer a variety of vocational training and work experiences for adults with disabilities who are not ready for supported employment. The Paramus Adult program provides services to “Real Life Choices” Bparticipants. The “Real Life Choices” program has been introduced by the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) as one of the expanded options for adults and families living together and seeking additional services. The program, which provides services ervice s through contract work and Work Readiness Instruction, will empower adults and families

S to direct services and make selections based on individual support needs. Work Readiness Instruction focuses on specific learning modules and the concept of person-centered planning. Learning modules include self-advocacy, communication skills, employment preparation skills, introduction to community supports, and career exploration. The dult instruction is oriented towards work readiness and linkage to the Division of Vocational

A Rehabilitation Services (DVRS) for employment. Live & Learn, a DDD-funded respite

program, introduces adults to recreational pursuits and new hobbies.

The adult programs currently host two parent/caregiver support groups. These groups meet monthly. Because caregivers of people with disabilities have many similar concerns, the atmosphere at the meetings is one of camaraderie. As one would expect, families are very supportive of each other and the conversation is so vigorous that the professional facilitator often needs to say very little.

CAREERS THROUGH TECHNOLOGY is a technology-based The PARAMUS and WOOD-RIDGE ADULT PROGRAMS, program for adults aged twenty-one and older with significant located in barrier-free buildings, provide vocational training via physical and/or developmental disabilities residing in Bergen a sheltered workshop experience to adults with disabilities aged County. Funded by the Division of Developmental Disabilities, the twenty-one and over. Employment preparation skills are taught in program utilizes a Person-Centered Planning Approach to assist adults structured and sequential steps. Work Readiness Instructional in obtaining and maintaining employment in technology or re- classes include skills training in career exploration, employment lated fields. Careers Through Technology offers an instructional preparation, advocacy, travel training, person-centered planning, blend of technology skills, critical thinking skills, travel training, and linkages to community supports. The Paramus Workshop independent living skills, career exploration, job sampling, advo- is frequently the site of a Division of Developmental Disabili- cacy, self-evaluation skills, Transition to Independence groups, ties (DDD)-funded respite program, as well as a DDD “Real Life and community linkages. Choices” vendor. Contact Information: Janice D’Aiuto, (201) 301-9645/ Contact Information: Janice D’Aiuto/[email protected]. [email protected]. Addresses: Paramus Adult Program, 296 East Ridgewood Avenue, Address: Careers Through Technology, 296 East Ridgewood Av- Paramus, New Jersey 07652/201-343-6000 ext. 6025; Wood- enue, Paramus, 07652. Ridge Adult Program, 304 Valley Boulevard, Wood-Ridge, NJ 07075/201-343-6000 ext. 3602. PROGRESSIVE PATHS offers vocational training and instructional components to adults with disabilities aged twenty-one and over in our Wood-Ridge Workshop facility. Vocational training is provid- STEPPING STONES is a program for adults over twenty-one with ed through Department of Labor sub-minimum wage certificates for significant cognitive and behavioral disabilities. Funded by the companies in the area. Utilizing a person-centered approach, adults Division of Developmental Disabilities, it provides instruction and are afforded instruction and experiences in contract work, adult daily experience in contract work, daily living skills, and community living skills, health education, community integration, and the integration. Vocational training is provided through Department of development of social and recreational skills. Focus is on increased Labor sub-minimum wage certificates for companies in and around participation, adaptability, and independence. Progressive Paths is Bergen County. The individualized program is geared toward skills frequently the site of a Division of Developmental Disabilities-funded training in sequential steps with behavioral supports. Live & Learn respite program that introduces adults to recreational Contact information: Janice D’Aiuto, (201) 343-6000 ext. 6025/ pursuits and new hobbies. [email protected]. Contact Information: Janice D’Aiuto, (201) 343-6000 ext. 3602/ Address: Stepping Stones, 296 East Ridgewood Avenue, Paramus, NJ [email protected]. 07652. Address: Progressive Paths, 304 Valley Boulevard, Wood-Ridge, NJ 07075.

ducational Enterprises has been implementing its unique vision for special E education for more than ten years. The inclusion of students with disabilities in ducational their local schools and communities is not only a legislative mandate but also a Echallenging direction for all educators. The Educational Enterprises division offers highly specialized services that are cost-effective and customized to the specific needs of each local school district, enabling those districts to maximize their educational resources.

All services are provided in the local schools or students’ communities. Our expert staff

work to effectively include students with their non-disabled peers, enhance faculty skills E through professional development and on-site support, and promote understanding nt e rpris s of diversity and the acceptance of differences within schools and communities. With over thirty years of experience, the Bergen County Special Services School District is committed to providing quality education that enables all students to become contributing members of society.

Educational Enterprises supports the fundamental concept that all children can grow up, learn, and gain valuable educational opportunities together.

ADAPTIVE EQUIPMENT is any device or piece of equipment OCCUPATIONAL, PHYSICAL, AND SPEECH THERAPY. Our that serves to improve a student’s functional abilities while in a therapists are skilled clinicians who possess extensive experience work- school or community setting. Adaptive equipment allows the stu- ing with children and adolescents with developmental, sensory pro- dent to engage in classroom activities to the fullest extent possi- cessing, neuromuscular disorders, and learning disabilities. Services ble. Services include: Consultation and Evaluation; Collaborative include: Comprehensive evaluations; Direct Treatment services; In- Problem Solving; Design and Fabrication Services; and, Repairs, clusion Support; and, Staff Development workshops. Adjustments, and Modifications to Existing Equipment. SOUND SOLUTIONS—Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hear- ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY services include: Comprehensive AT ing. Services include: Student Intervention Services, such as ac- evaluations to determine appropriate technology tools to assist stu- ademic support to students in inclusive settings; Assessment of dents in accessing curriculum; Provision of ongoing AT modifica- auditory skill development; and Monitoring of hearing aids, co- tions to meet student needs; In-service training for local district chlear implants, and classroom amplification systems. Consulting staff; and, equipment rentals including laptops with AT software. Services and Staff Development workshops are offered.

AUGMENTATIVE/ALTERNATIVE COMMUNICATION SER- THERAPEUTIC ADVENTURE is designed to foster improve- VICES offers students with severe communication disabilities the ment in communication, decision-making, and personal potential opportunity to have a voice and be heard. Services include evalua- awareness for K–12 and Special Education students. Program objec- tions, trainings, consultation for staff and families, in-services, and tives include: Self-esteem; Positive peer relations; Coping, dealing with AAC equipment rentals. the future; and, Problem solving and communication skills. Activi- ties include: Challenge course activities; Problem-solving games; and BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS SERVICES include: Consulting Ser- Team-building activities. Resources such as professional equipment, vices; Direct Student Services, including Social Skills Instruction two highly trained staff members, annual safety inspections, and out- and ABA Home Program Implementation and Coordination; Pro- door challenge and indoor gym courses are available. fessional Development seminars and workshops; and Applied Be- havior Analysis Workshops including the four-day Summer Behavior TRANSITION SERVICES assists students in making a successful Institute held in July. transition from school to adult life, including employment, postsec- ondary education options, and community living. Individual Servic- INCLUSION/MAINSTREAMING, CLASSROOM MANAGE- es include: Travel training; Job shadowing, internships, and industry MENT, BEHAVIOR INTERVENTION STRATEGIES, TEACH- tours; Postsecondary guidance; and, Vocational assessments. Training ERS AND PARAPROFESSIONALS. On-Site Consulting Services; services include in-service training and staff development. Direct Student Services including Paraprofessional Shadowing and Implementing Instructional Strategies; and Professional Develop- Contact information: Grisel Espinosa 201-343-6000 ext. 6530/ ment for Teachers and Paraprofessionals on topics such as Under- [email protected]. standing Disabilities, Transition, Community-based Learning, and Address: Educational Enterprises, Bergen County Special Services, Effective Behavioral Strategies on the school bus. 540 Farview Avenue, Paramus, NJ 07652. Bergen County Special Services Resource Center en t er CAPE Collaboration Access Planning Education

The mission of the Bergen County Special Services CAPE Resource Center is to serve individuals with disabilities from infancy through adulthood as a central point of contact for guidance and connection to accessible and appropriate resources. CAP E C The Center is committed to helping individuals and families he access the system of resources to enrich all aspects of life. T

LINDA WIESENECK Director 540 Farview Avenue, Paramus, New Jersey 07652 201-343-6000 ext. 4067/[email protected]/www.bergen.org/cape

he BCSS CAPE Resource Center further expands the Resource Coordination TDistrict’s services by offering access to educational Families often experience feelings of isolation and emotional opportunities for families, individuals, and service providers stress, as well as frustration over a lack of information and serving the special needs population in the greater Bergen direction regarding their child’s disability. We are available County area. to answer questions, offer consultation and support regarding Over thirty years of experience has shown us that one of services and community resource options, and provide the greatest challenges facing families and individuals is follow-up to ensure quality of service. As their children learning to navigate the system of services for people with grow, families can utilize the CAPE’s Resource Center at life’s disabilities throughout their lifespan. As a result, we created various transition points. a one-stop information and assistance center that is open to everyone who is involved in the special needs community. Educational Workshops The center serves as a “clearinghouse” of knowledge of Ongoing workshops are offered to families and professionals. disability resources located throughout the region, and The CAPE Center affords Professional Development promotes awareness of and linkages to services, information, opportunities to special education and general education and resources. We offer informational, educational, teachers, support staff, and administrators throughout the professional development, and networking opportunities greater Bergen County region. Workshops conducted by the to professionals and parents to enhance service coordination, Bergen County Special Services Behavior Department provide information sharing, and skills building. We also partner BCBA credits, while other workshops offer opportunities to with other service providers to conduct workshops, trainings, earn graduate credits through Concordia University. educational seminars, and other meetings related to their respective client services directly at the CAPE. Previous workshops have covered topics that include: • Parenting Skills The CAPE serves as a: • Executive Functioning and School Success • Resource for BCSS students and families; • Annual Camp/Recreation Expo • Resource for BCSS case managers and faculty; • Internet Safety/Cyberbullying • Resource for BCSS adults and their families; • Transition/Transition Planning • Resource for families and individuals throughout the greater • Support Groups Bergen County region; • Guardianship/Estate Planning/Special Needs Trusts • Resource for education and disability services professionals • Behavioral Interventions/Social Skills Workshop throughout the region. • Entitlements

BERGEN COUNTY SPECIAL SERVICES BOARD OF EDUCATION Gary J. Lentini, President Joan Fragala, Vice President Norah Peck, Interim Executive County Superintendent William J. Barnaskas Daniel Golabek Marisa Laura Heluk Dr. Beth Lancellotti

CENTRAL OFFICE ADMINISTRATION Dr. Howard Lerner, Superintendent John Susino, Business Administrator/Board Secretary Mitchell Badiner, Director of Instruction Tara Bohan, Director of Instruction

BERGEN COUNTY EXECUTIVE James J. Tedesco III

BOARD OF FREEHOLDERS Steve Tanelli, Chairman Tracy Silna Zur, Vice Chairwoman John A. Felice, Chair Pro Tempore Maura DeNicola David L. Ganz Thomas J. Sullivan Jr. Dr. Joan M. Voss