Brooklyn Blue Feather Elementary
Brooklyn Blue Feather Elementary
Educating Students Ages 5 to 12
An Applied Behavior Analysis Program for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders
| Address | Phone | Principal |
|---|---|---|
| 2335 Gerritsen Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11229 | 718-834-0597 | Denise Polanco-Nieves |
Video: Virtual School Tour
Brooklyn Blue Feather Elementary, (also known as BBF,) accepts children between 5 and 12 years of age who reside in the five New York City boroughs. Children must exhibit behavioral characteristics associated with autism and must have an educational classification of autism. Students must be recommended for a Non-Public School (NPS) placement by the New York City Department of Education. The school aims to help students achieve the level of functioning that will allow them to transition to less restrictive environments.
View the Brooklyn Blue Feather Elementary School Virtual Tour pdf Document
Educational programming is designed to address individual needs in high student-to-teacher ratio classrooms; classroom ratios can range from 10:1:1 to 8:1:4, depending on the personalized learning and behavioral needs of the students. Classroom teachers receive support from a team of School Administrators, Therapists, and Program Coordinators who are experts in providing effective instruction to students with autism spectrum disorders and those learners with similar deficits. This includes extensive training in behavioral approaches, structured teaching methods, and academic instruction and our Program Coordinator team includes a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who helps oversee advanced behavioral interventions, modifications, and supports.
Instructional programming focuses on teaching academics, language, self-help, daily living skills, effective communication, and appropriate social skills. Brooklyn Blue Feather Elementary School follows the New York State Learning Standards. Many of the students can traditional state assessments while other children can be assessed alternatively. Classroom teachers utilize VB-MAPP, curricular benchmarks, and other classroom tools to create educational plans and devise appropriate learning objectives.
In particular, BBF utilizes strategies, programming, and instructional methods such as:
- Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
- Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
Treatment and Education of Autistic and other related Communication Handicapped Children (TEACCH)- Word/Sign (Sign Language)
- AAC Devices / Communication Devices
- Art Education
- Music Education
- Sensory Integration
- Multi-Sensory / Multi-Disciplinary Approach
- Technology (computers and SmartBoards in every classroom)
- Evidence-Based Programming and Curricula; Reading, Math, Science & Social Studies
- Dedicated Computer Lab
- Self-Help and Daily Living Skills
- Counseling
- Social Skills Groups
- Person-Centered Planning
- STAR Autism Program
Self-Help and Daily Living SkillsWithin Brooklyn Blue Feather Elementary, the following services are provided:
- Screenings
- Parent Training & Parent Workshops
- Individualized Programs
- Small Classes with High Teacher / Student Ratios
- Speech, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Counseling; Individual, Group, or Consultant Model
- Social Worker on site
- Nurse Support
Weekly Schedule for Brooklyn Blue Feather Elementary
The following is an example of a typical weekly schedule for a Brooklyn Blue Feather Elementary School classroom:
| Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:45 | Arrival – Activities of Daily Living | ||||
| 9:00 | English Language Arts and Spelling | English Language Arts | English Language Arts and Spelling | English Language Arts | Independent Work and Set Individual Schedules |
| 9:30 | English Language Arts | ||||
| 10:00 | Literacy | ||||
| 11:00 | GYM | Music | Social Studies | GYM | Art |
| 11:30 | Social Studies | ||||
| 12:00 | Lunch | ||||
| 12:30 | Math | Math | Social Studies | Math | Math |
| 1:30 | Science | ||||
| 2:00 | Science | Health | Science | Media | Media |
| 2:30 | English Language Arts | English Language Arts | Math | English Language Arts | Math |
| 2:45 | Dismissal | ||||
DESCRIPTIONS OF LISTED ACTIVITIES APPEAR BELOW:
Art: Hands-on art activity with appropriate scaffolds to ensure that every student can engage in and benefit from the task.
Gym: Gym teacher instructs students in a range of physical games, exercises, and tasks that include support for learners who may struggle with gross and fine motor activities.
Health: Students learn healthy habits and safe behaviors, within an age-appropriate curriculum.
Literacy: Students receive differentiated reading and writing instruction in small groups. In some cases, students transition to another classroom to receive instruction.
Math: Instruction is based on skill level, learning style, and communication ability. Materials include Triumphs Math, Stern Math, Touch Math, and other strategies.
Media: In the designated Media Lab, students practice their computer skills.
Music: Hands-on and interactive musical activities that reflect student strengths and challenges. Classes practice group numbers and concerts to be presented at bi-annual concerts.
Science: Science concepts, hands-on learning
Social Studies: Students learn about their community and neighborhood concepts.
Brooklyn Blue Feather Elementary
2335 Gerritsen Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11229
718-834-0597
Principal: Denise Polanco-Nieves