HLVS is a publicly funded, not-for-profit school that is highly regarded for providing outstanding educational and therapeutic services for children with developmental disabilities. There are approximately 200 preschool children. The students present with various disabilities that may include cognitive delays, social/emotional deficits, autistic spectrum disorders, speech/language delays, orthopedic and or motor impairments, visual impairments and/or significant medical issues.
Preschool Center Based Program
HLVS utilizes a developmental curriculum that incorporates all of the New York State pre-school standards. Each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) is carefully implemented. Appropriate goals are developed according to each child’s level of functioning in every skill area. Interdisciplinary meetings are regularly scheduled with the educational/therapeutic teams and the school administration to fully monitor, discuss and assess the ongoing needs of each child.
Classes are comprised of children with similar academic/social needs and learning styles.
Class ratios (6:1:2, 8:1:3, 9:1:3, 12:1:4, 18:1:2 Integrated) and length of school day (half-day/full day) are based upon the needs of each individual child.
Center Based services can include:
- Speech Therapy
- Physical Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Counseling
- Parent Counseling and Parent Training
Applied Behavior Analysis Program
The Applied Behavior Analysis program at HLVS utilizes evidence-based teaching techniques in our highly structured classrooms. Goals and tasks are individualized according to each student’s learning style and Individualized Educational Plan. Teaching techniques include discrete trial instruction, task analysis and natural environment/incidental teaching as well as well as individualized sensory integration programs. There is a strong emphasis on incorporating visual systems within the classroom environment
Preschool Special Education Itinerant Teacher (SEIT) Program
The SEIT program is for children 3-5 years of age who require additional educational support services. Eligibility and referral of services is made through the child’s school district’s Committee for Preschool Special Education (CPSE).
The primary goal of the SEIT Program is to provide educational support in order to maximize a child’s success and growth within a typical pre-school, early childcare setting or within the home. The SEIT is responsible for carrying out the child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals and working with the child towards the achievement of his or her IEP goals. These goals may include improving attention and impulse control, basic cognitive skill development, socialization skills and peer interaction and developing preschool motor skills. Services may take place in a typical preschool/childcare setting or in the home.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services, for children with autistic spectrum disorders, may be provided as part of HLVS SEIT program.
HLVS SEIT teachers are New York State certified Special Education Teachers.
Preschool Related Services Program
The HLVS Related Service Program is for children age 2.5 – 5 years of age, who require Itinerant Services as determined by the child’s school district’s Committee on Preschool education (CPSE).
Itinerant services can include:
- Speech Therapy
- Physical Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Counseling
- Parent Counseling and Parent Training
Services may take place at HLVS, in a typical preschool/childcare setting or in the home.
HLVS Related Service providers are licensed by the State of New York.
The SEIT and Related Service Programs are funded/regulated by the New York State Education Department and Nassau/Suffolk Department of Health (DOH).