Middle School

Program Description: Upper Elementary

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

• Unit 1: Getting Acquainted/Ice Breakers
• Unit 2: Self-Knowledge
• Unit 3: Plan and Act

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 they build on one another.
• Each activity has 3-5 components:
  • Introduction to the activity by the mentor
  • A completed 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 (reminder for Transition – online webex meetings, emailing, planning the SDP presentation/party to parents)