Special Education Programs for Students

The Collaborative provides Special Education programs for children and youth ages 5-21 in both public and private settings. Programs and services are available for students with autism, developmental disabilities, intellectual impairment, learning disabilities, and emotional and behavioral disorders.


Referrals

Student referrals must come through the Special Education Department in the student’s local public school district. Parents who may be interested in our Special Education Programs for their child should contact the Special Education Director for their local public school system.

Programs are designed to meet the needs of students in our member schools systems. Out-of-district referrals are accepted as space permits. We currently serve students from Franklin, Hampden, Hampshire, and Berkshire counties in Massachusetts, as well as students from New Hampshire.

Public school administrators wishing more information may contact the Special Education Office:

Office of the Administrator of Special Education
413.584.1664 Phone
413.584.8592 Fax

Programs

The following types of programs may be offered by the Collaborative for Educational Services, with specific offerings determined by need. All programs provide small group and individualized instruction across all curriculum areas and are supported by clinical specialists. To best serve a range of student needs, The Collaborative offers programming both within public schools (In School) and at satellite locations (Out of School).

Specialized Primary Program (SPP)
(Elementary)

With a focus on developing communication and social skills along with academics, this program serves elementary-age students with developmental disabilities, including autism spectrum disorders. While providing a highly structured and consistent learning environment, SPP offers mainstream opportunities whenever it is in the best interest of the child and available in the public school setting.

Prevocational Program
(Middle School)

Designed for students ages 12-15 with developmental disabilities and/or moderate intellectual impairment, this program provides instruction in functional academics, communication, socialization, and life skills as preparation for future vocational training. Volunteer vocational activities and Community Service Learning projects are arranged to enable students to develop skills and positive relationships with peers.

Community-Based Work Experiences (CBWE)
(High School)

The CBWE is a school-year program serving students ages 16-21 with developmental disabilities and/or moderate intellectual impairment. It provides supervised, school-based vocational training and instruction in functional life skills and academics. Activities focus on developing the appropriate communication and social skills necessary for supported or competitive employment. Instruction and related services are based on each student's needs.

Primary Alternative Learning Program (PALP)
(Elementary)

Elementary school-age children with emotional, behavioral, and/or specific learning disabilities receive individualized instruction in a highly structured, emotionally supportive environment. A comprehensive behavior program based on positive reinforcement addresses behavioral disorders and social skills deficits, and educational opportunities address each student's learning abilities. Each student participates in small group and individualized instruction throughout the day across all curriculum areas. Therapy sessions with a licensed private therapist are provided weekly during school hours. Additional support from a learning disability specialist is also available.

Middle Alternative Learning Program (MALP)
(Middle School)

For middle school-age children with emotional, behavioral, and/or specific learning disabilities, MALP offers individualized instruction in a highly structured, emotionally supportive environment. A comprehensive behavior program based on positive reinforcement addresses behavioral disorders and social skills deficits. All students participate in weekly therapy sessions with a licensed private therapist during school hours. Additional support from a learning disability specialist is available to address specific student needs.

Transitional Alternative Learning Programs (TALPs)
(High School)

TALPs are designed for high school-age students with emotional, behavioral, and/or specific learning disabilities who have not been successful in adjusting to their present high school setting. Students receive individualized instruction in a highly structured, emotionally supportive environment, as well as weekly therapy sessions with a licensed private therapist. Its comprehensive behavior program is based on positive reinforcement contingencies.

HEC Academy
(High School)

An alternative special education high school with its own building in Northampton, HEC Academy enrolls approximately 50 students with emotional, behavioral, and/or specific learning disabilities. Ranging in age from 14-21, HEC Academy's students have not been able to succeed in less restrictive environments. Students work on academics, social skills, recreation, and community service to earn credits toward high school graduation from their sending schools. An onsite clinician/counselor is available.

Vocational Alternative Learning Program (VALP)
(High School)

The VALP Program is designed for high school aged students with average cognitive ability, along with social, behavioral, emotional and/or specific learning disabilities. The program provides instruction in functional life skills related to communication, socialization, and academics, as well as traditional course work leading to high school graduation. Vocational training may include opportunities for skill development in a variety of areas, such as housekeeping/janitorial, office/clerical, retail, assembly, horticultural, and food services. Additional career exploration options will be chosen based on the students' interests, abilities, and life goals. An on-site clinician/counselor is available to provide daily ongoing, informal counseling. A comprehensive behavior program based on positive reinforcement contingencies addresses behavioral disorders and social skills deficits.