What is ACP?

ACP is an alternative learning experience for the non-traditional learner or the student who is struggling in a way that compromises the ability to access learning.

Learning, development, and change should not be thought of as linear and finite process. Likewise teaching should not be thought of as the delivery of a checklist or series of steps. Children are naturally curious and learn through active multi-sensory or multi-model learning and problem solving. Learning and transfer of learning will be more effective if the content is presented in a process that involves real life, stimulating, meaningful problems or challenges.

We focus on teaching personal skills such as providing opportunities for students to build a sense of self mastery and collaboration while moving toward an awareness of self regulation for success in academics and community.

Creating a sense of safety and connection is the foundation of meeting students’ needs. As Maslow indicated in his hierarchy of needs model, students will struggle to achieve higher goals of learning and function until their primary needs for comfort and safety are met. Our goal at ACP is to provide structure which enables students to feel safe and secure because they understand expectations and daily schedules. This also blends in with the relationship building between peers and staff. Students will be shown healthy relationships with trusted adults through appropriate boundary setting and unconditional positive regard from staff.

  • This program implements the core concepts of the trauma informed classroom. This program offers a flexible pathway so that students will create goals of personal growth, relationship, accountability and self regulation to support their academic success.

  • Students will begin each day with a whole group check in. After check in students will depart for the off site interactive learning experience. The Learning Team will be with students as they engage with nature, do hands-on projects and create a sense of mastery around transferable skills for everyday living. Programming will return to campus, share lunch and review the morning’s experience. The afternoon will be academic integration of the experiences with a curriculum led by the Special Educators.

  • Students will begin each day off site in an immersive learning environment. The program has currently aligned with some independent venues such as: a local farm where students will work outside and learn about the business of agriculture; to Outdoor adventure/team building activities led by ACP staff.