Program Components

Our Mission

The mission of the Joseph F. Cappello School is to provide developmentally appropriate learning experiences for children classified as preschool disabled, multiply disabled and autistic. Speech-language, occupational, and physical therapies are integrated with classroom instruction to provide a comprehensive program of services. The instructional and therapeutic staff and child study team work with parents, sending districts, and other agencies to provide an optimal program. A home component is a key element of the autistic program which is based on principles of Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA).

Program Components and Organizational Structure

The Joseph Cappello School serves students between the ages of three and seven years of age. Students aged three and four may be enrolled in one of two Preschool Disabilities classrooms, either full or half day.

All students at the Joseph Cappello School receive physical education twice a week. The phys ed teachers adapt sport and activities to meet the developmental needs of all students. They encourage students to participate according to their skills and abilities.

Related Services
The Joseph Cappello School provides a full range of therapeutic services including speech, occupational and physical therapy. Individual and/or group counseling are provided by certified school social workers or psychologists.

Therapy in the educational setting is conducted using a variety of techniques and strategies in order to meet the goals and objectives of each child's IEP. The purpose of therapy is to develop skills while promoting success in the educational environment.

Nursing Services
Nursing and Health services are provided by two certified school nurses. In addition to routine care of children, these nurses may participate in IEP meetings, assist in feeding program reviews, conduct vision and hearing screenings and maintain close contact with parents.