The Bridge School

Self-Determination Program

Lower Elementary

Program Description

The Bridge School Lower Elementary School Self-Determination Program is a 3-unit program for students who have complex communication needs (CCN) and who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).

Program Units

  • Can be completed in 7-9 weeks per unit over the course of the school year.
  • Should be completed in order from 1 to 3 as units build on one another.
  • Each activity has 3-5 components:
    • Introduction to the activity by the mentor
    • A competed project sample by the mentor
    • A homework assignment with parents
    • Classroom writing project
    • Culminating written and artistic project expressing student individuality

Our program can be implemented by any combination of teacher, instructional assistant, speech-language pathologist, family member and/or mentor. Our program has three unique components:

  1. Guided Practice Classroom Lessons
  2. Mentorship Experiences
  3. Real-World Opportunities