ESSENTIAL sKILLS Classroom

ESSENTIAL SKILLS CLASSROOM

At New Heights Academy, the Essential Skills Classroom is designed for students who are focusing on building life skills necessary for success in the workforce, independent living, and vocational training. This classroom emphasizes hands-on learning and practical experiences to equip students with the skills they need to navigate everyday life, contribute to their communities, and transition successfully into adulthood. The primary focus is on developing independence and preparing students for post-graduation opportunities. Key areas of focus include:

• Life Skills & Daily Living: Teaching essential life skills such as personal hygiene, meal preparation, laundry, cleaning, and organizing, helping students become more independent in their daily routines.
• Workforce Readiness: Focusing on vocational training, job readiness, and workplace behaviors, including time management, communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and following workplace safety guidelines.
• Money Management: Introducing students to budgeting, saving, and spending, including basic financial literacy skills to manage personal finances independently.
• Social Skills & Communication: Building strong social interaction skills, including how to appropriately engage in conversations, follow social cues, and build relationships in both personal and professional settings.
• Independent Living: Preparing students for living independently by teaching skills such as grocery shopping, using public transportation, and managing appointments and schedules.
• Vocational Training: Providing hands-on opportunities for students to explore various careers, practice job-specific skills, and gain real-world experience through internships, volunteer work, or simulated job environments.
• Self-Advocacy & Responsibility: Encouraging students to develop self-advocacy skills, including how to ask for help, communicate needs, and take responsibility for their choices and actions.

Through a combination of Unique Learning System (ULS) and real-world applications, students in the Essential Skills Classroom are supported in acquiring the foundational skills they need for independence and success in the workforce. This classroom provides a structured, yet flexible environment designed to prepare students for life beyond school, ensuring they are ready to transition to vocational training, independent living, and meaningful employment classroom.

 School Hours:  9:00 AM - 3:00 PM