Benhaven's Learning Network Site Two School Program

Our Student Profiles

The special needs of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are varied and complex. Benhaven School, which has been in operation for over 40 years, is a provider of educational services for children with autism whose students have significant cognitive and behavioral challenges.

But we recognize that there are also many students with autism spectrum disorders that do not fit this profile, and this placement would be inappropriate for their needs. For some students with autism, cognitive ability and disruptive or aggressive behaviors are not the issues that prevent their success in public schools. These students may be academically able or even gifted, yet require intensive interventions in the areas of social, communication, coping, and organizational skills. They may be extremely anxious or have high sensitivities to the ordinary sounds and activities of the typical public school. Even with intact speech, their language deficits can interfere with their learning in a highly auditory environment. There may be unsolved learning difficulties affecting their ability to participate. They may require classroom modifications and supports that are simply too overwhelming to be practical or to anticipate success.

These skills can be very difficult to remediate effectively in a fast-paced, academically-focused classroom. Rather, they require an individually-driven and intensive focus that is time consuming and requires expertise in teaching these skills to children with varied profiles. At the same time, these students also require a grade appropriate curriculum just like their peers.

Highly Individualized Programs

Programs for our students are individually developed using a person-centered approach. Each will be creative in the focus of developing deficit skill areas while building self-esteem and coping skills that will, for many students, result in their successful return to public school. Each transition back to public school will be specifically choreographed to include continuing support for the child as well as addressing the training needs of the district so they are prepared to accept the child with confidence. A cooperative relationship with the district is a focus for all students; those anticipated to return as well as those who will need a longer-running program. Involvement of families is welcomed and fostered, and training opportunities are made available to them as well as to school staff. We accept students ages 5 to 21, and programs for older students will include community components to support a meaningful transition to life after high school.

Linda Grimm, Director of the Benhaven Learning Network, is the Program Director of this branch of Benhaven School. The teaching staff consists of Benhaven Learning Network certified teachers with a strong background in consultation for students being served in their school districts, and with varied certifications including BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) and RDI (Relationship Development Intervention). Administrators are encouraged to call and speak with Linda Grimm (203)774-0008 x 300, or Stacy Hultgren x 336 for more information.