While ABA is recognized as one of the best therapies to help children with autism or severe challenging behaviors, good ABA programs are not “one size fits all.” Rather, each program is written to help each child work on specific skills that will help them become more independent and successful. Positive reinforcement is one of […]
Continue readingTwo commonly used treatment models for children with special needs are Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). You may have heard of these and wondered what is the difference, and which is best for your child? What is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)? Applied Behavior Analysis focuses on improving specific behaviors, such as social […]
Continue readingGovernor Murphy’s Fiscal Year 2020 Budget proposal allocates $9.5 million in state and federal dollars toward addressing the needs of individuals with severe challenging behavior. Many children and adults with autism frequently engage in severe challenging behaviors, such as aggression, self-injurious behavior (SIB), and property destruction. These behaviors can range from skin-picking and slapping to […]
Continue readingThe transition from special needs student to functioning adults begins with indicating goals and challenges within the already existing student’s respective IEP (Individualized Education Program), begins at the age of 14.As required by a state’s specific special education rules and regulations, the IEP is usually reviewed on a yearly basis allowing the transition plan to […]
Continue readingCongratulations! You now have an adult on your hands. However, this adult still needs our assistance as they transition into independent living.If they had applied for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Medicaid will come with the SSI approval. Once again, carefully review and consult with your state’s individual regulations. By now, all matters related to […]
Continue readingBy ages 16 to 17, transition will include out of school job readiness in the community. We will take an interest inventory of the students at the beginning of the year and another at the end of the year. They will begin to develop a resume. Job skills training will begin.Travel safety training becomes important […]
Continue readingIf you want to understand the mission of an RKS school, you have to get to know its people: students, teachers, administrators and parents alike. Here, we are going to get to know Alpha School’s brand new principal, John Gonzalez. Principal Gonzalez joined us as the Supervisor of Curriculum and Instruction in July of 2016, […]
Continue readingWe are so happy to share the success of one of our graduates, Dalton — A Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Success Story Dalton was a student at our school from the age of nine to eighteen. He was not a big fan of Alpha when he started, but over the years he grew to love our […]
Continue readingAlpha School in Jackson NJ, is a very special place. There is a level of commitment, dedication, and warmth that is felt by anyone who walks through its doors. Going above and beyond what is required is something that Alpha’s faculty and staff do every day and Principal Monica DeTuro has been at the heart […]
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