Residential Services

Residential Students- Staff

As with any organization, success rises and falls on leadership. The mark of the residential program has long been one of service to the students and the school. The department is led by the Director of Residential Services. Working with the director is an administrative assistant and five supervisors. Together these six staff members have a lengthy history of working with children. The residential leadership team constantly work together to implement new ideas and improve the education and experience of the students in the residential program. They are always looking to make sure that the support and instruction in the area of ADL’s remains relevant and individualized for every student.

Within each cottage Youth Service Workers (YSWs) have the responsibility of providing the daily care and oversight for the students when not in school.  Under their care the students are taught everything from proper personal hygiene to etiquette in dining.  They learn valuable lessons ranging from self-discipline to getting along with others. The Youth Service Worker creates a safe and nurturing environment where each student can learn and develop to the best of their ability the daily living skills necessary to function successfully in their world.

Depending on the number of students, there will be anywhere from 2-5 YSWs assigned to work in a cottage, with an average ratio of about four students to one staff member. At the end of each nine week marking period a summary sheet is sent home with the student that provides families with information on how their child is doing in the cottage and what skills they have mastered or are working on in the area of activities of daily living.  

The residential department places strong emphasis on communication between all members of a student’s educational team. The most important member being the student’s family. Parents/guardians are encouraged to call the cottage anytime to speak with their child or a residential staff member. In addition, families also can call the school and ask to speak with any residential supervisor or the Director of Residential Services. YSWs communicate regularly with classroom teachers and educational assistants to make sure that classroom needs are being supported in the cottage. It is our firm belief that students will succeed when we are all working together.