Started in 2007 at the request of Montgomery County Public Schools, the Montgomery County campus of Kennedy Krieger School serves students in grades 3-8 who are working toward a high school diploma, and students aged 11-21 who are seeking a certificate of completion.

While the program extends preference to students from Montgomery County, it also accepts referrals of students from other jurisdictions.

Transportation is provided by the LSS.

View WUSA-TV report on the new Kennedy Krieger autism school in Montgomery County, Maryland - October 17, 2007

Instruction

The instructional program follows the Maryland Voluntary State Curriculum, Content Standards, and MCPS Life Skills Curriculum. Community-based and work-based learning experiences are incorporated into weekly routines for each student to prepare them for future transitions.

• Interventions

  Instruction is provided using evidence-based methods, including but not limited to TEACCH, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), discrete trial, incidental learning, Pivotal Response Treatment, augmented communication, picture exchange communication, sensory diets, and vocational training.

• Assessment of Progress

  Students participate in the Maryland State Assessment program, or the alternative assessment (Alt-MSA) program for annual testing. Additionally, benchmark assessment is done to note progress on curriculum goals as well as progress on IEP goals. The IEP is reviewed at least quarterly, and that review is included in the quarterly report card shared with the student and the family.

• Autism
• Intellectual disabilities
• Multiple disabilities

Related services identified on each student’s individualized education plan (IEP) are offered. These services may be delivered in pullout, embedded, and consultative formats. These include, but are not limited to the following:

• Speech/ Language Pathology
• Occupational Therapy
• Physical Therapy
• School Health Services
• Assistive Technology
• Music Therapy
• Audiology
• Counseling/Mental health services

Related services are provided along with other services that allow students to progress throughout their instructional day. These include:

Sensory Integration

Through consultation with the Occupational Therapist, students are provided with opportunities to modulate their arousal levels throughout the school day and assist them to become more attentive and available for learning. Students are assessed for their individual sensory needs and provided with individualized activities and environmental modifications that are embedded into lessons. Additionally, the Verizon Multi-sensory Room is a state-of-the-art multi-sensory environment that was developed with a grant from the Verizon Corporation. Many students successfully utilize the room for therapies, academic learning activities and behavioral calming programs.

Positive Behavior Intervention

Dedicated behavior resource staff work closely with the classroom and related services staff to integrate skill development as a primary component of successful behavior management. Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs) are used to develop Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) that focus on proactive strategies. In addition, all staff members are trained in safe crisis management procedures.

The school employs a multidisciplinary team approach to program design and implementation. Team members have regular opportunities to collaborate on individual students. Social Workers are assigned to assist in team coordination and to serve as a liaison with the family as case manager.

Preparation for Employment

Instruction and the supporting related services are directed toward providing training and practice to students so that they can work after leaving school. Training is provided in the classroom program and on-campus work based learning (WBL) opportunities are part of the program.

Work Based Learning

Students have access to off campus work based learning opportunities. Partnerships with three local businesses allow students to participate in developing vocational skills in the natural environment.

Preparation for the Future

Students are provided the opportunity to participate in instruction by traveling in the community to use the library, shop at local stores, and use community transportation. This encourages them to generalize their academic, social, and recreational skills in the natural environment.

The program provides opportunities for students and parents to participate in school activities throughout the year. These annual events include:

• Parent Luncheon
• Family and Staff Dinner
• Spring Fling
• Camping
• Field trips
• Yearbook
• School Pictures
• Tee Shirt contest

Maureen Wheeler, Office of Admissions, Compliance, and Transition
Phone: (443) 923-4170
wheelerma@kennedykrieger.org