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Many Programs for Special Needs Challenges Are Available in the Area for Children and Adults
or individuals facing a disability or special needs, each day brings challenges that are ever-present. Whether the person is a child or adult, whether the challenges are physical, intellectual, or emotional, each individual must persevere to enjoy a quality of life and sense of independence that so many of us take for granted, Fortunately, many programs are available to provide support, disseminate information, and direction to resources. Local agencies, federal and state governments, schools, YMCA/ YWCA, community recreation programs, and camps are all ready to help special needs individuals to develop skills, participate to the best of their ability, and to feel included as an important member of the team or activity group. Such programs are increasingly offered in schools, including the Bridge Academy in Lawrenceville. An independent nonprofit school, it enrolls students ages 8 to 18 with language-based difficulties, such as dyslexia, auditory processing disorder, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder), and dysgraphia. The Bridge Academy is designed to help students “‘bridge the
gap’ between their potential and performance,” explains Development Director Kim Bruno. “The school is well-known and respected for its unique ability to remediate student weaknesses, encourage independent learning strategies, and help maximize potential. Students are best described as ‘bright students who learn differently.’ These students are of average to above-average intelligence but thrive and learn best in more accommodating educational settings. The school’s educational expertise attracts students from more than 32 different school districts in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.” Multi-Sensory Ms. Bruno points out that the Orton-Gillingham method is the foundation of the language arts program. Small group instruction, with a 3 to 1 student-staff ratio, is an important focus, she adds. “Multi-sensory teaching techniques are employed to address individual learning styles while a supportive and nurturing environment fosters each student’s academic and social growth “Orton-Gillingham instructional approach has proved to
be highly successful for students with dyslexia and other language-based learning disabilities. The Bridge Academy is one of only 13 schools in the nation (and the only one in New Jersey) that is accredited by the Orton-Gillingham Practitioners and Educators.” A comprehensive curriculum includes language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, art, physical education/health, career orientation, speech, counseling, and occupational therapy. Technology is fully utilized at the school with the use of student laptop and classroom interactive Smart Boards. “Opportunities for student involvement in non-academic and extra-curricular services and activities are encouraged, and provided through periodic school-sponsored events as well as student participation in sports and events sponsored at and by the sending districts,” continues Ms. Bruno. “Also, as the schedule allows, students aged 14 and older are enrolled in Career Orientations, designed to explore school to post-school activities, including vocational training, career exploration, and entry into community or four-year colleges. This
program has been highly effective, with 87 percent of the students pursuing a college education.” As Ms, Bruno points out, a hallmark of the Bridge Academy is “the commitment, collegiality, and depth of knowledge of the staff and faculty, The teachers consistently show sensitivity and understanding to students as they learn together. “They celebrate each child’s talents, successes, and build
upon a strong community including students, parents, family members, child study team members, and professionals. The Bridge Academy is a student-centered, academically challenging school with clear expectations and learning foundations.” Sports Programs In addition to the regular school program five days a week from September to June, after-school and summer tutoring, a summer remedial
reading program, and summer teacher training in OrtonGillingham multi-sensory are also offered. Sports programs have always been a way to emphasize the value of teamwork and the necessary contribution of each individual, and good sportsmanship. Often, however, those with special needs and disabilities have been left out of such activities. With the advent of Special Continued on Next Page
21 • TOWN TOPICS, PRINCETON, N.J., WEDNESDAY, june 7, 2017
SPECIALNEEDSRESOURCEGUIDE