What does Special Education mean to us?
Montessori is - and always has been - a philosophy of inclusion.
Our approach to education is individualized to the child while creating a supportive care-based environment and an inclusive community where all children, families and teachers can belong.
BELONG HERE.
Our teachers are prepared to foster individualized learning by closely observing the child and their needs, following constructivist pedagogies which serve children of all abilities.
The Montessori method has a multi-sensory approach to learning with materials that support a child simultaneously applying visual, auditory and kinesthetic-tactile learning. This means that the materials can serve all learners.
Yes, the materials are intrinsically accessible to learners with special needs AND when teachers have the skills and desire to bring this learning to all children, this allows the access to be in reach of the child. Collective Kind offers Montessori Inclusion Classrooms where all sides of the child are embraced and supported making for a richer learning environment for all.
See below for an example list of staff training.
Our classrooms are prepared for, and our teachers are trained to work with children who have IEPs (Individualized Education Program) and IFSPs (Individualized Family Services Plan) – receiving Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Learning Supports.
We work with providers through Early Intervention (for those under 3YO), the Commitee of Preschool Special Education, and private providers. Children may receive these services for any number of reasons - delays due to premature birth, a diagnosis of autism, or sensory seeking behavior, to name a few.
Facts about Collective Kind's Inclusive Classrooms
Having a mix of kids with different abilities and needs in essence means a classroom that offers a supportive environment to all.
Plenty of individualized attention from our teachers / guides is one of the main aspects of our school day. We support each child as a unique member of our community; young citizens who seek and deserve holistic support.
Our teachers are also trained to implement a thorough observation and assessment process for children who may benefit from special education services so that all children can have what they need to thrive.
Our School Directors are ready to support families through the process of requesting these services and working alongside the family and service providers to best support and advocate for the child.
Some of our Professional Development Trainings include:
Navigating NYC’s Early Intervention (EI) and Commitee of Preschool Special Education (CPSE)
Observation + Documentation in the Classroom
Occupational Therapy and Sensory Diets
Play Therapy
ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) + Social skills development
Art Therapy
Integrating Speech Therapy into the Daily Classroom