Stewart Home Celebrates Autism
Each and every one of our students who has a diagnosis of Autism spectrum disorder (or perhaps what was formally known as Asperger’s syndrome) is unique. Many have articulated that our structure, which consists of classes, vocational opportunities, and a plethora of recreational and social opportunities, helps them to manage expectations and allows them to be more independent. “I do like the everyday routine. I like knowing what I am going to do everyday,” Janie said.
Janie is a very active member of campus at Stewart Home & School. Swimming, chorus, handbells, and working on campus give Janie a sense of purpose. “I love having responsibilities,” she said.
Stewart Home & School is unique. Most special education programs end at age 21, and then adult settings focus on vocational options and daily living skills. Stewart Home & School focuses on lifelong learning and assigns each person an education plan in addition to goals for vocational placement, social maturity growth and daily living skills training. “I love classes. They make me feel inspired,” said Janie, a student for nine years. “I like to learn.”
The faculty of the school program has experience with the learning styles of people with Autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, Fragile X syndrome and Williams syndrome, as well as other intellectual disability diagnoses. It is the objective of the school program to creatively plan successful learning experiences for all students and to consistently reinforce the students’ enthusiastic motivation for participation and further growth. This includes on-campus helpers or on-campus vocational opportunities. “I like helping Margaret. It gives me a sense of responsibility and makes me feel capable. Maybe more capable than I thought I ever could be,” Janie said.
Take a glance into Janie’s day as we celebrate her on Autism Pride Day!
For more information about classes at Stewart Home & School, please visit our Lifelong Learning page.