HENRY VISCARDI SCHOOL

Curriculum & Instruction

We strive to provide our students with every opportunity to achieve academic success in an environment where Social and Emotional Learning and self-advocacy is embedded within the curriculum and one that focuses on the best interests of each individual student. Henry Viscardi School (HVS) students receive instruction aligned with the New York State Learning Standards. Advanced Regents, Regents and Local Diplomas, as well as CDOS* and SACC* credential options and college level coursework, are offered.

Students’ Individualized Educational Programs (IEPs) identify the essential skills and knowledge needed to acquire to master grade-level content standards. Content, methodology, or delivery of instruction is adapted, as appropriate, to address the unique needs of our students and ensure their access to the general curriculum.

*Career Development & Occupational Studies (CDOS) and Skills and Achievement Commencement Credential (SACC).

Little boy in wheelchair on Laptop

Academics

We create supportive and challenging learning environments where all students are treated with dignity and respect. Beyond a traditional academics – English, Math, Science, Social Studies, Foreign Language and STEM – Henry Viscardi School offers and develops unique and innovative programs of excellence to address the scholastic, recreational, health, physical, vocational, and social needs of its students.
Grades 6 - 8
Grades 9 - 12

Guidance and Transition

Our guidance and transition department is committed to serving the academic, personal and career needs of Viscardi’s students. The team works collaboratively with teachers, administrators, therapists and parents to ensure an optimal learning experience and transition plan for each student. While in New York State transition planning is required at age 15, we feel it is important to learn about and begin thinking about the planning process as early as possible.

To have an effective transition plan, many resources and services must be utilized.

Transition and College Planning Resources
A mosaic made by the students of the Henry Viscardi School
Special needs boy paining

Art Education

We feel the arts are an essential part of education. They give our students a method to personally express themselves, foster cognitive and emotional development, encourage inclusivity and enhance their overall quality of life. Our dedicated arts wing features traditional art, music, media arts classrooms and a Makerspace, where teaching professionals adapt the so everyone can create and perform.

Adapted Physical Education

Through actively participating in team sports and outdoor/leisure activities, our students develop the necessary knowledge and skills to establish and maintain physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle. The programing includes team and self-confidence building, situational concepts, safety, and sportsmanship.

3 special needs children playing
Young man in a wheelchair wheeling into an accessible pool

Universally-Designed Indoor Pool

The School’s John J. Gutleber Aquatic Center enables students to safely enjoy fun, therapeutic aquatic exercise outside of their wheelchairs or braces. A model of universal design it offers a uniquely accessible experience to our students as part of their physical education curriculum.

Assistive Technology

Technology plays an ever-growing role in our daily lives and Viscardi has been at the forefront of ensuring students with disabilities have equal access to the curriculum and all aspects of the school day. We also pride ourselves on preparing students with the technology skills they will need to successfully transition to higher education, employment and independent living. In conjunction with our educators, therapist and students, Viscardi’s information technology team ensures every student has a customized laptop equipped with the software, devices and accessories needed to fully participate in the classroom. Our classrooms also feature SMART boards to accommodate synchronous and, as needed, remote learning. Additionally, our IT professionals create accessible digital documents for students with visual and mobility disabilities to support their academic performance and ability to work as independently as possible.
Special Needs student in wheelchair at tablet learning
Henry Viscardi School - Join our diverse team image with a teacher reaching over the shoulder of a young student with headphones in a wheelchair to help them with their schoolwork on a laptop computer

Join our Diverse Team

We are dedicated to recruiting and hiringqualified individuals for a wide range of educational, therapeutic, administrative and support services positions. We pride ourselves on our culture of diversity, equity and inclusion. The Viscardi Center has been a recipient of the National Organization on Disability’s Leading Disability Employer Seal every year since 2018.

 

View Our Job Openings

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Two Henry Viscardi School students in wheelchairs smiling and laughing together

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