STARS Classroom Descriptions
K-2 Classroom
This classroom is appropriate for students with Autism/Asperger’s who need intensive interventions in social, emotional, behavioral, and academic areas as well as interventions to teach the BASICS of school readiness (e.g., responding to transitions, following ecological cues, actively participating in small or large group, sitting at a table, waiting, turn-taking, maintaining alertness and focus all day). Additionally, the program will consistently support and program for students who exhibit language levels lower than their age typical peers.
Students in this classroom may be self-contained for 70-100 percent of their day until the team (including parents) determines the student has developed the basic readiness skills and can successfully and independently be integrated into a generalized education setting. STARS classroom support personnel will be provided in all locations.
1-3 Grade Classroom
This classroom is appropriate for students with Autism/Asperger’s who continue to need intensive interventions for emotional regulation as well as skill development in social interactions. High-level academic instruction will be provided, and students will have access to grade level core curriculum, either within the program or in the integrated setting. Program targets include providing consistent opportunities to use pre-taught social and behavioral skills within the generalized education setting. Additional program targets include:
p Independently transition to and from all settings
p Ability to follow ecological and classroom wide directions within small group or large group integrated settings
p Consistent, independent use self-regulation and calming strategies
STARS classroom support personnel will be provided across locations to support generalization of skills.
**Note: If students are consistently mainstreamed more than 50% of the academic day, consideration for regular education placement should be discussed at an IEP meeting.
4-6 Grade Classroom
This classroom is appropriate for students with Autism/Asperger’s who have struggled significantly in the general education environment with gaining independence, remaining emotionally regulated, understanding social cues, and/or engaging in appropriate social interaction. These students may need additional specific skill development in one or more areas of academic development. Students will receive inclusive opportunities for all specials (Art, Music, P.E.) if appropriate, as well as for science/social studies and/or math and reading. This program is highly flexible and individualized to meet the needs for these grade levels.
**See also program description and student criteria
