The Calais School offers a comprehensive educational experience with state approved cirricula, therapeutic supports, visual and performing arts, independent living skills building, and college & career preparation. An interactive learning environment with smaller classes and differentiated instruction keep students engaged. Academics are further enriched with the use of promethean boards, ipads and laptops in every class room. We provide a safe and nurturing environment in which the self-esteem and personal growth of our students can flourish.

K and Elementary

Our K through elementary program teaches the basics with fun, student-centered activities. Certified teachers, counselors and therapists help students achieve academic, behavioral and emotional success. In addition to IEP meetings, communication with parents/guardians is facilitated through daily reports. Students also benefit from spacious playgrounds and open-air activities.

Middles School (Grades 6-8)

Our middle school curriculum helps students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills while promoting social-emotional growth. In the 6th and 7th grades, students are exposed to world languages, computer classes and the opportunity to participate in sports teams. The 8th-grade curriculum features a modified high school schedule with varied teachers and classrooms.

High School (Grades 9-12)

Our high school curriculum emphasizes collaborative student-led learning with a strong focus on technology. World Languages, advanced science and accelerated math programs prepare students for higher education. Student expression is engaged through a variety of fine and performing arts classes. Exposure to 21st Century Life & Career Skills, Work-Based Learning and Community-Based Instruction provide students with the building blocks for future success. Students prepare for adulthood with real-world experiences as well as the development of life skills, independent living skills and social skills.

12 Plus Program

Many special needs students benefit from a transitional program to bridge the gap between high school, college, and their career. The 12 Plus Program allows students ages 18 – 21 to prepare for the next step in their lives in a safe, nurturing and encouraging environment. There are opportunities for internships in the business community and higher levels of study through the College Bridge Program in partnership with County College of Morris.

Calais Adult Transition Program

Many young adults with learning disabilities graduate from high school to find that they do not qualify for state funded services and are subsequently left to navigate higher education or employment on their own.  The Calais Adult Transition Program provides college and career readiness support for adults with special needs who have graduated from high school but still need a little more support to succeed in these spaces.

Additional Academic Programs

TWICE EXCEPTIONAL (GIFTED & TALENTED) PROGRAM

The Calais school recognizes there are Twice Exceptional students who require unique educational opportunities to showcase their abilities. Our “Innovations in Special Education” award-winning Twice Exceptional program emphasizes each student’s strengths, allowing them to discover and explore their interests through traditional and non-traditional enrichment activities. Nurturing and cultivating your child’s strengths and talents are the primary focus of our Twice Exceptional Program. Past Twice Exceptional programs include STEM, app design, forensic science, audio design, visual and performing arts, bell choir and more.

Learn more about Calais’ Twice Exception Gifted & Talented Program

STEAM

STEAM is a regular part of our academic curriculum for all grades. Various activities across a wide array of subject matter provide students with time to focus on collaboration, creativity, problem solving and communication while also offering new ways to explore and engage with the world. Check out our STEAM Project Gallery!

THE ARTS AT CALAIS

Like most children, those with special needs enjoy being creative and greatly benefit from the relaxing and fulfilling experience that exposure to varying forms of art can provide. At Calais, students have the opportunity to enjoy the arts through their preferred form of sensory experience. Our Visual and Performing Arts programs offer students a safe way to explore new skills and partake in shared experiences with their peers.

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Available extra-curricular activities vary from year to year, however options have included: basketball, cross country, spirit squad, dance team, robotics, lego club, girls group, boys group, cooking club, yoga, chorus, band, and drama.

The Calais School is proud to be the home of the Calais Cougars – 2016 Basketball Champions!

TRANSITION & CAREER SERVICES

For students with special needs, planning for the transition from high school to young adulthood requires early planning. At Calais, we introduce topics of transition as early as grade 5 and continue to guide and prepare students for the next step in their lives up through grade 12 plus. Considerations for post-secondary education, the development of career and vocational skills, and development of independent living skills are also addressed through our full suite of Transition and Career Service offerings which include:

  • 12 Plus & CCM Bridge Programs
  • 21st Century Life & Career Skills
  • Work Based Learning
  • Community-based Instruction
  • Calais Adult Transition Program

Learn more about the Calais Transition Program

EXTENDED SCHOOL YEAR (ESY) PROGRAM

Looking for a summer program placement that will keep your students on track for September? If your students are challenged by communication, social skills, mood regulation, or learning disabilities, the Extended School Year (ESY) Program at The Calais School will address their individual needs for you in a fun and educational environment.

Learn more about ESY at Calais