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The Jefferson Academic Center offers intermediate and secondary school education for students who have experienced problems learning within a regular education setting due to difficulties associated with Asperger's Syndrome/High Functioning Autism or internalized-type social-emotional disabilities such as Anxiety and/or Depression. Students in this program require an educational environment that fosters growth within the areas of self-worth, interpersonal/pragmatic skills needed to meet the New York State Learning Standards appropriate for their grade. The Jefferson Academic Center's individuality and uniqueness is defined by its ability to integrate its social skills curriculum throughout the school day. The staff utilizes its specialized training working with this student population, as it reinforces skills such as social judgment, conversational skills, conflict resolution, empathy, and personal responsibility. Career awareness and post-secondary transition planning is also integrated throughout each school year.
In order to promote "school spirit" and student involvement within the Jefferson Academic Center, special events are regularly held such as: School Spirit Week, Fall Festival, Thanksgiving Dance, and Halloween class decorating contests. Student opportunities to become involved in student government, class representation, and the election/campaigning process are also available during the year. Students have been given the opportunity to express their artistic talents by decorating the building with colorfully painted murals. They may also practice their speaking skills by presenting the daily morning address and reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. Also, they may be chosen as "Activity Leaders" whereby they assist staff members with specific responsibilities throughout the building. In addition, several school-wide field trips are planned along with regular walking excursions into the business community each year along with Field Day at the culmination of the school year.
The primary goal of the Jefferson Academic Center is to facilitate the students' return to a district-based program. Until then, the Jefferson Academic Center provides students with the tools necessary to focus on learning, relate to others, and become independent, contributing members of society.
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