We provide a well-rounded experience for students to promote individual success. Students in our Day School and Residential Program are offered a wide variety of educational and learning opportunities in addition to academics.
Academic Classrooms
Students across our program who are working closer to grade level in reading and math may attend one of our academic classrooms.
Reading and math instruction is planned by the academic specialist, a licensed special education teacher, and many students also participate in small-group science and history lessons.
Adapted Physical Education
Our adapted physical education (APE) teachers provide instruction in both the Dukakis Aquatics Center and the NECC Knights Gym.
Swim instruction, provided by certified swim instructors, focuses on water acclimation, water safety, and coordinated movement in the water. The gym provides space and equipment that allows for group instruction in adapted sports and games, and recreational equipment for pursuing interests.
Art and Music
Our art and music classes, which are led by licensed educators, take place in dedicated rooms filled with the latest technology and equipment. Students are able to truly explore their creative outlets.
Health and Wellness
Our Wellness Center is a unique component of our facility.
A full-time nursing staff with exam and waiting rooms provide students with real-need, immediate health services while our on-site Smigel Supersmile® Dental Clinic allows students to receive dental care in a familiar and comfortable environment.
Occupational Therapy
Whether in a leisure, work, or self-care activity, NECC occupational therapists (OTs) provide their expertise across many ages and skills.
They provide effective interventions, often in conjunction with other disciplines, that are meaningful to the student as they progress in their fine motor, visual motor, and daily health and hygiene skills. Consultation is also provided to address students’ sensory experience and coping abilities.
Physical Therapy
NECC physical therapists (PTs) work alongside APE teachers to provide an integrated approach to the development of motor skills during student sessions in the gym.
This coordination between disciplines provides students with the best outcomes for advancing their gross motor skills to allow for better access to the sports and individual recreational activities as they grow.
Social & Leisure Skills
The recreational classroom in the Dillon Arledge Student Center is a dedicated space for students to participate in independent and group activities led by a licensed educator, with consultation from our SLPs and OTs.
Speech and Language
Our dedicated team of speech and language pathologists (SLPs) create meaningful communication opportunities for our students and their families using a collaborative approach that integrates high-quality, state-of-the-art, and evidence-based speech and language services.
Recognizing that each student has unique learning needs, we tailor our teaching to address individual challenges.
Vocational Training
Beginning at age 14, students explore their interests and strengths through vocational education and training.
Students begin with job sampling and learning work skills in the Daniel Smigel Career Development Center (CDC) and throughout the school. For some students, their vocational education may include volunteer opportunities or securing part-time employment in the community.
