ASD - Horizon
The ASD Horizon program was developed by the DOE. Rethink Ed Platform Solutions(Open external link) provides support and instructional materials.
Class Structure
The program serves a maximum of eight students with autism in a Special Class (SC). The class is taught by one special education teacher and one classroom paraprofessional. Opportunities for inclusion with general education students are encouraged.
Curriculum and Instruction
Classes follow the New York Learning Standards and the same curriculum used in all DOE schools. ASD Horizon teachers are trained in special strategies for students with autism. Rethink Ed Platform Solutions provides support including evidence-based instructional materials, based on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). These materials support the academic and social-emotional development of ASD Horizon students.
Social-Emotional Supports
Related service providers work together with classroom teachers using Rethink lessons to address students’ communication and socialization challenges.