Programs and Academics

What is the goal for Dual Language?

The goal of our dual language program is to provide instruction in English and Spanish  that supports students in becoming biliterate, bilingual and bicultural with the long term goal of becoming global citizens.

1. Bilingual Proficiency: The primary goal of a dual language program is to develop students' proficiency in both languages. By being proficient in multiple languages, students gain a competitive edge in a globalized world, enhancing their career opportunities and cultural understanding.

2. Biliteracy: Dual language programs strive to help students become literate in both languages, enabling them to read, write, and communicate effectively in different contexts.

3. Cultural Awareness: Learning in both languages exposes students to the cultures of Spanish-speaking countries and English-speaking regions. They gain an understanding of different customs, traditions, and ways of life.​

What will the dual language classroom look and sound like?

• Teachers adhere to language of the day

• Students can express themselves in their language but are encouraged to use the day’s targeted language 

Class Structure

The program serves a maximum of eight students with autism in a Special Class (SC). The class is taught by one special education teacher and one classroom paraprofessional. Opportunities for inclusion with general education students are encouraged.

Curriculum and Instruction

Classes follow the New York Learning Standards and the same curriculum used in all DOE schools. ASD Horizon teachers are trained in special strategies for students with autism. Rethink Ed Platform Solutions provides support including evidence-based instructional materials, based on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). These materials support the academic and social-emotional development of ASD Horizon students.

Social-Emotional Supports

Related service providers work together with classroom teachers using Rethink lessons to address students’ communication and socialization challenges.

Students must meet the following criteria:

Classification

Eligible for an educational disability classification of Autism.

Intelligence

Below average to average intelligence with areas of strengths and weaknesses.

Achievement

Academic skills on or near grade level.

• Students benefit from instruction based on the principles of ABA and can work independently with some support.
• Students participate in standard assessments, including New York State (NYS) Math and English Language Arts (ELA) exams.
• Accommodations are provided as written on the student’s IEP.

Language/Communication

May have mild to moderate language difficulties. They may have difficulty expressing themselves and understanding what others are saying. They may also have difficulty with social language.

• Students entering kindergarten can speak in at least 2-3-word, meaningful sentences.
• Older students are able to string words together to express needs and wants, but need support to communicate effectively in social situations.

Social Functioning

May have mild to moderate delays in playing and interacting with other students. Students may participate in social activities, but often prefer to engage in activities by themselves.

Behavior

May have mild to moderate behavior difficulties. Student is not physically aggressive, does not engage in self-injurious behaviors, and does not show “escape behaviors,” such as running away from staff or exiting the classroom or school building.

P.S.145K is a proud NYC Community School