Elim Pilots New Learning Program
November 3, 2015
As the pilot school in the development of a new program, Elim has helped develop an innovative way to boost communication skills and increase knowledge of current events. Twenty-five classrooms in Elim’s school recently took part in a pilot program called “Boardmaker Current Events.”
Boardmaker Current Events offers weekly news-based content that promotes active learning with interactive activities. The predictable, instructional framework supports literacy development, language, and basic math skills in a motivational way. Additionally, it’s boosting Elim students’ self-esteem.
Ryan’s class recently read an article that told the story of the first model with Down Syndrome to ever walk the runway at New York Fashion Week. When Ryan heard the story, his ears perked up and he said, “Wait, she has Down Syndrome? I have Down Syndrome!” Ryan was so excited and repeatedly said, “She’s like me!”
Sharon Maack-Connolly, Elim’s Assistive Technology Coordinator, has been pleased by the impact of the program. “Our teachers involved in the pilot have seen success with their students,” she explains. “It’s been a very exciting journey so far, and we look forward to watching our students’ skills develop over the course of the pilot. These products have made our students active learners, using age-appropriate content. Their success continues to exceed our expectations!”
The new program fills a need for adaptable, accessible, academically-relevant programs for our students with disabilities. It’s just one component of our assistive technology program, where a commitment to best practices pushes us to continually expand the capabilities of children and adults with disabilities.
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