Every day is a chance to learn
The Superintendent’s Autism Intensive Communication Academy is a Specialized Individualized Program for students with Autism who are on a Modified Curriculum who demonstrate significant language and communication difficulties. The program utilizes visual supports and a variety of communication tools to help the students succeed academically and socially. The use of technology is integrated throughout the student’s day.
- Computer Based Instruction involves the use of computer technology (e.g., iPADs, tablets, promethean board) and/or computerized programs for teaching language skills, including vocabulary, social skills, social understanding, and social problem solving.
Building Language
Individuals with Autism have unique needs, with respect to learning independence and self-advocacy, due to their challenges with social interaction and verbal and nonverbal communication. Teachers and Speech Pathologists contribute to the independence and self-advocacy of individuals with ASD by ensuring everyone has a functional communication system (including AAC) and by supporting communication in different social settings with a variety of partners to promote generalization of skills.
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) involves supplementing or replacing natural speech and/or writing with aided (e.g., Picture Exchange Communication System [PECS], line drawings, speech generating devices, and tangible objects) and/or unaided (e.g., manual signs, gestures, and finger spelling) symbols.
- Activity Schedules/Visual Supports include objects, photographs, drawings, or written words that act as cues or prompts to help individuals complete a sequence of tasks/activities, attend to tasks, transition from one task to another, or behave appropriately in various settings. Written and/or visual prompts that initiate or sustain interaction are called scripts. Scripts are often used to promote social interaction but can also be used in a classroom setting to facilitate academic interactions and promote academic engagement.