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The Multiply Disabled (MD) program is designed for students with
significant cognitive, social and physical needs. It is structured for the
student to progress through a continuum of specialized learning environments
that meet individual developmental and functional needs.
The ratio of students to staff in the MH programs never exceeds 4 to 1. The ratio is determined by the instructional needs of
the students in the class. As the students increase their competencies, the
goal is to create a less restrictive environment to further build
independence.
Each classroom contains a variety of adaptive equipment. In addition to
the staff's effective use of this equipment, students selected as
appropriate are placed in a variety of weight-bearing positions during the
school day to maximize motoric development. Optimum positioning is key to
proper body alignment for instruction and feeding.
Communication is a primary goal in our instructional program. A variety
of expressive options are provided for nonverbal students. These include
switch-activated loop tapes, dial scanners, picture exchange systems,
language boards and voice output devices. Programs are initiated by the
Speech Department and are trained up in the classroom for generalization of
skills.
Mealtime management is also a part of the program. Lunch and snack times
are valuable instructional opportunities. We service children who are
dependent feeders, as well as students that are independent. A feeding
specialist is available to train staff in the "next step" along a
child's continuum of development. Safety issues, being imperative, are
closely monitored.
Nursing services are a major part of the program. The nursing staff works
cooperatively with parents and private physicians to insure the health and
safety of all students. Nurses are available for tube feedings, physician
ordered treatments, medication distribution, and all of the daily nursing
needs in a school environment.
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