Ingham Intermediate School District offers programming for children, pre-k through eighth grade, who are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders. The major focus of ASD programming is to assist in the development of a broad range of functional abilities through meaningful engagement within an intentional, structured learning environment. The ultimate goal is for students to return to their home district. Instructional services are designed to meet the changing needs of students as they acquire and generalize skills. Program staff and parents work collaboratively to enhance the child's communication, social, behavioral, cognitive, and sensorimotor development with particular emphasis on areas of need.
A continuum of instructional methods and environments are designed to facilitate meaningful engagement, adequate structure and routine, and generalization of skills. The ASD program strives to maximize learning opportunities, allow for flexible placement, and offer support between the school and home environments. The program nurtures family involvement. We provide supports and strategies for parents and siblings supporting the generalization of skills across environments.
The general education curriculum of the district where the classroom is located is implemented as developmentally appropriate, addressing the needs of each student. Curriculum is aligned with the Michigan Curriculum Framework. The program provides the opportunity for a full-day experience based upon the individual needs of the student. Extended school year opportunities are determined by the student's Individual Educational Plan (IEP) team.
