New Beginnings, dedicated to serving students ages three to 21 diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum, hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony for its new high school and life skills program Wednesday with special guest, Senator Richard Codey. Fairfield Mayor James Gasparini, other community leaders, school district representatives, parents and students also took part in the official opening. The new facility caters to the unique needs of older autistic students through the use of a new computer lab, career exploration center and a life skills studio apartment.
“The purpose of this expansion is to meet the growing needs of our students and to offer them opportunities to learn to be successful at home, in the workplace and in their communities,” said David Weeks, Director of the Gramon Family of Schools. “We continue to refine our carefully structured curriculum, training resources and support services to help all of our students achieve their highest level of independence and productivity.”
The recent additions for older students focus on career awareness, community living, career development and job exploration.
o Technology Lab – To prepare students to reach their full potential as adults, the Technology Lab will teach the essential job seeking skills needed to find and maintain employment.Lessons focus on completing employment applications, creating resumes, using the Internet and newspapers to search for jobs and computer-related job skills such as data entry and spreadsheet manipulation.
o Career Exploration Room – In this new classroom, students develop the social skills needed for many jobs, sample job tasks and learn interview skills. The curriculum is designed to cater to student interests in such areas as horticulture, operating a cash register, culinary arts, graphic design and more.
o Life Skills Studio Apartment – To teach students independent living skills, the Life Skills Studio Apartment has all the features of a modern home including a washer and dryer, shower, stove, microwave, television, bed, dressers and other common household items.
“We are excited to offer such extensive programs and services to help our older students transition into future occupations and independent living,” said Lisa De Flora, Principal of New Beginnings. “In addition to the new learning facilities, students have access to the unique individual attention and caring that is the hallmark of the New Beginnings program."
New Beginnings’ students Taylor G., Hannibal Z. and Carlos C. spend time with Senator Richard Codey following the Ribbon Cutting of the new high school and life skills program in Fairfield on January 21.
