About SKILLS Private Academy
Highly qualified teachers and staff offer enriching and innovative curriculum compatible with Arizona State Standards in the following areas:
READING AND WRITING
Students are taught using grade level standards, with modified lessons and accommodations so that students can easily access content. Individualized attention means maximum progress. Teachers use curriculum from Edmark, Read Naturally and Handwriting Without Tears. Students have the latest technology available in Chromebooks and iPads to practice safe written language opportunities and closely monitored research. America Sign Language is also taught to incorporate kinesthetic learning with vocabulary use and acquisition.
MATH
Curriculum used to teach math includes TouchMath, MobyMax, and Saxon. Teachers focus on real life use of math skills to teach students using manipulatives, exchanging money in the community, and more. Students have measured and built raised beds for a garden. Life Skills lessons in the kitchen include measuring for cooking and baking each week. Math is hands-on and relevant.
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SCIENCE AND SOCIAL STUDIES
Science and social studies curriculum are taught through Unique Learning System. State standards are achieved through personalized lesson plans. Students access local area resources where they interact within their community, learning through hands-on experiences. Some of our community-based field trips include visits to Coronado National Memorial, San Pedro Riparian Conservation Area, Colossal Cave, and Ramsey Canyon.
LIFE SKILLS AND SOCIAL SKILLS
The focus at SKILLS is readiness for adult living and contribution to our community. Our curriculum comes from Unique Learning system, Emotional ABCs, and real vocational experience. Subjects include emotional identification and regulation, cooking, personal hygiene, toileting, community-based field trips, and other functional life skills. Students learn about future career choices through visits to the school from community members such as state troopers or visits out to see the Fire Chief or the Sheriff’s helicopter unit.
SPEECH, OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY, AND PHYSICAL THERAPY
Speech, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy are offered to students who qualify for services based on their IEP by licensed therapists.
APPLIED BEHAVIORAL ANALYSIS
SKILLS recognizes the value of ABA therapy in order to gently address students with behavioral needs. SKILLS allows one on one outside therapists to work with their clients while the student attends school in order to partner with agencies such as Centria and Positive ABA for maximum student success.
C.A.N.T.E.R.
Therapeutic horseback riding is available for most students who wish to participate in equine therapy as part of tuition. SKILLS partners with Cochise Area Network of Therapeutic Equestrian Resources (CANTER) for horse-based therapy. Students attend and either ride, groom or work toward approaching and accepting their horse.
S.K.I.L.L.S. Activities
Families come together with teachers to organize fun activities such as the Halloween Carnival, Pajama Christmas party, and facilitate student involvement in the Avengers Little League. A track and field event is offered in the Spring. SKILLS students in grades 7-12 are invited to attend the local high school special education Prom each May.
Mission Statement
Our mission is to provide each child with a unique supportive environment that they deserve to be successful.
