- Age Group: 5-7 Year Olds
- Class Size: 6:1:2
Room 11 is our younger 6:1:2 classroom. In room 11 we utilize techniques of Applied Behavior Analysis (individual visual schedules, individual instruction, least to most prompting, forward and backward chaining and task analysis) throughout our school day to assist in the acquisition and generalization of academic and social skills. In addition, there is a large focus on continuing to develop communication skills and daily living skills. Other curriculum strategies such as Learning Without Tears and Touch Math, as well as music and arts and crafts are infused to help enhance and individualize our program.
TEAM 11
Aphia, Ema, Crys, Julia, Victoria
Recently in Room 11......
2/26/26 Work Time
You truly can’t ask for a better snapshot of what individualized education looks like for our room.
In one part of the room, a small group of students sits side by side at the table—each child paired with a dedicated staff member. They’re learning together, sharing space, building tolerance for group instruction, and working on goals written specifically for them. Even within the group, instruction is personalized. Prompts, pacing, materials, and expectations are adjusted to match each learner’s needs.
Across the room, another student is engaged in focused 1:1 Discrete Trial Training (DTT) with a team member. His skills are broken down into clear, manageable steps, with repetition, reinforcement, and data guiding the way. This intensive approach allows the student to build foundational skills with precision and confidence.
Two different formats, and two different learning environments, all in one space. One shared commitment: meeting every child exactly where they are and giving them what they need to grow. That’s individualized education that works!
1.11.26 Snack Time = Learning Time!
Snack time in our room goes way beyond eating. It’s always a learning opportunity! Students are using AAC devices, PECS, and verbal language to request what they need, practicing real-life communication skills in a meaningful setting.
We’re also working on sitting together at the table — a goal we focus on daily — building attention, patience, and social awareness. The best part? The smiles that come from success. When students communicate independently and share space with peers, you can see their confidence growing.
Small moments. Big progress.
A visit from SANTA! 12.19.25
We were so fortunate to have a visit from Santa and Elf! With a gift for each child, they gave everyone a chance to sit on Santa’s lap and hear a joyful Ho, Ho, Ho!
We’re thankful to Steve Oill, Diane Rusch for their roles! We also appreciate Toys for Tots Capital Region for the amazing help they gave Santa, and Samantha Bailey Photography for her fundraiser for Crossroads by taking orders for photos with Santa!
12/1/2025 A Visit from Moonbeam and Carol
As part of our Giving Tuesday celebration, we were thrilled by a visit from Moonbeam, a flat-coat lab, and Carol, her owner.
Moonbeam, aged four, is certified as a Therapy Dog by Therapy Dogs International, and her training shows. Gentle and sweet, she loves children, and our students responded with delight to her kisses and wagging tail.
This was our first visiting pet this year and we can’t wait to see Moonbeam and Carol again, soon.
9/26/25 Room 11 Moments
Our amazing students are working together at one table, focused on puzzles and building connections. For our special children, sitting together and engaging in shared activities is a meaningful classroom goal—and today, they’re doing just that. We celebrate every step forward, every moment of growth, and every smile along the way.
Individual attention, Individual education
7/18/25
In Room 11, friends are working side by side, each paired with a dedicated teacher and focused on their own unique skills and goals. It’s a beautiful example of individualized learning in action—and the smiles on their faces say it all. Progress, joy, and support all in one moment.
Skills-Based Training 6.5.25
An informative video of part of an SBT session! We’re thrilled with T’s progress this year!
Bright Butterflies in Bloom 5.29.25
Students recently created beautiful “stained glass” butterflies using tissue paper and contact paper. Each child carefully placed colorful tissue pieces onto butterfly-shaped contact paper, layering the translucent colors to catch the light just right. Once complete, the butterflies were sealed and displayed on windows, where sunlight brought them to life—creating a vibrant celebration of spring and creativity! This craft encouraged fine motor skills, color recognition, and a joyful sense of artistic accomplishment.
A Big Milestone at Lunch! 3.31.25
Today, perhaps for the first time this year, we had everyone sitting together at one table for lunch. It may seem like a small moment, but for our students, it’s a huge accomplishment. Celebrating the little things that are really big things!
Cooperative Play Success
2.25.2025
Students in R.11 recently played a game together—cooperatively! This is a big milestone in any of our classrooms, but especially in this school-age group, where teamwork and social interaction are key focus areas throughout the year.
Playing cooperatively means taking turns, following rules, and working together toward a common goal—all important skills that help our students build friendships and social confidence. The progress they are making is exciting to see, and we are so proud of our kiddos.
Bowling Fun in R.11 2.18.25
Room 11 had a fantastic time kicking off their Special Olympics Young Athletes session with a fun and engaging bowling game in the gym! Bowling is a full-body activity that helps build coordination, balance, and motor skills while also encouraging turn-taking and teamwork.
The students loved rolling the ball and watching the pins tumble, cheering each other on excitedly. Activities like this promote physical fitness and boost confidence and social interaction.
We can’t wait to see what other exciting activities the Young Athletes program brings next!
Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies are Delish! 2.10.25
Today our young chefs took on a recipe for eggless cookies, to protect a classmate with an egg allergy! Every ingredient was measured and the students assisted every step.
This is just one of the ways we are teaching cooking and food prep skills, healthy eating, and food tolerance in our room.
Healthy Food Habits:
HFP Apple Slices 1.27.25
Each week we work on a new healthy food in our class. This week our Healthy Food Program (HFP) enjoyed engaging in slicing apples, holding them, and taking bites. Each child was given their own apple to explore, and for some, the first crisp bite brought smiles and encouraged more bites; for others, it was an opportunity to practice overcoming sensory aversions.
Our team supported the students and encouraged exploration. We celebrated small victories. This hands-on experience reintroduced the students to a healthy snack and also reinforced essential skills like trying new foods, managing textures, and engaging in group activities.
Moments like these showcase the transformative power of HFP, helping children develop healthier eating habits while building confidence and curiosity. The crunch of those first bites was more than just a sound—it was the start of healthier choices and big strides forward!
