Pupil Services Programs

The programming in Region One is student centered.  We will initiate, expand or adapt programming to support the students in our schools.  Because of our ever changing numbers, programs are implemented based upon our populations during any given year.  

The Mountaineer Academy is a program where students cultivate the academic, social and vocational skills necessary for life as an independent adult.  The program embeds a variety of community, cultural, team building and service trips during the school year that give students an opportunity to extend learning beyond the campus of Housatonic Valley Regional High School.

Units of Study Include:

Math Skills

  • Money, Budgeting and Personal Banking
  • Time and Scheduling
  • Data Collection, Display and Analysis
  • Problem Solving Strategies

Activities of Daily Living

  • Personal Health and Safety
  • Social Thinking and Relationships
  • Meal Planning and Shopping
  • Household Maintenance 

Transition Skills

  • Professional Communication
  • Social Soft Skills in the Workplace 
  • Career Exploration
  • Community Participation

Course Objectives: 

  • Students will gain skills and competencies necessary for adult living.
  • Students will meet the goals and objectives of their IEPs.

Students may access this program at HVRHS if their needs match the course objectives.   A multi-disciplinary team will make the final determination at the student’s transition planning and placement team meeting

The Alternative Learning Program for School Success (ALPSS) is an integrated education and clinical program supporting student social, emotional, behavioral, cognitive, familial, academic, and community needs.  ALPSS staff design and deliver collaborative teacher instruction, counseling services, and additional staff support in order to strengthen participating students’ ability to manage the academic and social demands of public high school, all while keeping students connected to their school community. 

Students may access this program at HVRHS if their needs match the course objectives.   A multi-disciplinary team will make the final determination at the student’s planning and placement team meeting.

A school-based Social Emotional Learning (SEL) program is designed to support students in developing the skills needed to manage their emotions, build positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. The program typically focuses on five core competencies, as outlined by the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL):

  1. Self-Awareness: Students learn to recognize and understand their emotions, thoughts, and values. This helps them identify their strengths and areas for growth, improving their ability to make informed choices.
  2. Self-Management: This component teaches students how to regulate their emotions, manage stress, set personal goals, and maintain motivation. It helps them develop resilience and persevere through challenges.
  3. Social Awareness: Students are encouraged to recognize and understand the perspectives of others, including those from diverse backgrounds. This promotes empathy, respect, and kindness in interactions.
  4. Relationship Skills: These skills help students build and maintain healthy, positive relationships with peers, teachers, and family members. They learn to communicate effectively, collaborate, resolve conflicts, and seek help when needed.
  5. Responsible Decision-Making: Students are guided to make thoughtful, ethical, and constructive choices about their actions, both academically and socially. They learn to evaluate potential outcomes and consider the impact of their decisions on themselves and others.

Key Features of an SEL Program:

  • Curriculum Integration: SEL is often integrated into various subjects, with activities designed to promote emotional literacy and problem-solving. Lessons can be part of regular classroom instruction, advisory periods, or dedicated SEL sessions.
  • Interactive Activities: The program uses interactive exercises such as role-playing, discussions, group projects, mindfulness practices, and reflection journals to engage students in learning and self-reflection.
  • School-Wide Approach: Effective SEL programs involve the entire school community, including teachers, staff, and parents. There may be professional development for educators to strengthen their own social-emotional competencies and better support students.
  • Support Systems: Many SEL programs offer support through counseling services, peer mentoring, and community involvement, helping students navigate personal challenges and promoting a sense of belonging.

By focusing on these areas, SEL programs aim to create a positive school climate, reduce bullying, enhance academic performance, and equip students with life skills that foster their long-term emotional well-being and success.