BASE
BASE (Behavioral, Academic & Social Enrichment) Institute utilizes an applied behavioral analysis methodology for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders, ages 5 - 21. It is full day school program that provides twelve month academic, social and behavioral treatment.
BASE Institute primarily serves children on the autism spectrum who need a program to address their individual educational, social, and sensory needs. These children require a high degree of customized attention and intervention that may not be provided in a mainstream setting.
Team Approach
BASE Institute is founded on the belief that a true team approach is vital to the success of our students.
Each team is comprised of the parent(s) / guardian(s), the site director, a special education teacher, a school psychologist, an assistant teacher / 1:1 aide, a speech / language therapist, an occupational therapist, a social worker, and a consulting psychiatrist when necessary.
Program Features
The BASE Institute follows an Applied Behavioral Analysis approach. Students receive a Functional Behavior Assessment in which maladaptive behaviors are analyzed and an individualized Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) is developed to outline proactive strategies to increase positive behavior and reactive strategies to reduce the frequency of maladaptive behavior. Input from students and families are regularly used to customize the strategies that will most effectively motivate students to complete their tasks. Our teachers work collaboratively to ensure consistency and facilitate generalization of skills. Our flexible approach allows us to use discrete trial methodology, when appropriate, in combination with incidental teaching to maximize educational potential.
Other features include:
- Individualized Academic Programs including Specialized Reading, Functional Mathematics, Social Studies / Science, Drama / Art / Physical Education.
- Language Skills Development consists of Pragmatic Skills Training, Use of PECS (Picture Exchange, Communication Symbols), Oral Motor Development, Articulation Training, and Availability of Augmentative Communication devices.
- Social Skills Training includes small group instruction, role playing, social stories and or/ social scripting.
- Opportunities for Integration include applied social skills lessons, community integration, and classroom integration.
- Transition Planning incorporates interest evaluation, vocational assessment, job training/coaching, and student internships as applicable.
- Life Skills Preparation includes behavioral management, leisure skills development, and practical life skills lessons such as money management, meal preparation, personal hygiene, community access training, etc.
- On Site Related Services Available: Speech/Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Counseling, Social Skills Training and Parent Training.
Our Training
All staff members initially receive intensive training on autism spectrum disorders and applied behavior analysis. In addition, it is required that all staff members participate in weekly training sessions that address different topics related to our student population.
Partnership with Parents
When a student is enrolled, so is the entire family. Parental communication is an important component of a student’s success at Gersh Academy. Parents are strongly encouraged to attend our on-site support/training groups to learn about BASE’s different approaches to specific disabilities. In these sessions, parents also learn how to implement the ABA approach at home. Frequent communication between parents and the classroom teacher is strongly encouraged to ensure continuity between home and school. Parents / guardians must be accessible during the school day and be open to modifying the student’s schedule when necessary.
