Every child deserves to be seen, understood and celebrated for who they are, especially within their educational experience. Disability Pride Month in July gives the opportunity to reflect on the progress education has made to include people of all abilities. In the United States over seven million students aged three to 21 utilize special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Act.
At Child Saving Institute (CSI), we believe every child has the right to access quality education that works for them. We know learning can look different for every child, that’s why we offer diverse tools and supports to meet each child where they are.
CSI offers a variety of programs to meet the needs of every child, especially those who may struggle in a traditional classroom environment. CSI’s Lavigne Learning Center, School & Family Enrichment (SAFE) and KidSquad are just a few ways we partner with children, educators and families to ensure every child can thrive, both in and out of the classroom.
Located on CSI’s Children’s Square campus in Council Bluffs, the Lavigne Learning Center, offers a specialized educational environment for students from first grade through their senior year of high school. As one of the few Tier 3 special education schools in Southwest Iowa, the Learning Center provides individualized support for students with complex needs. There is a focus on social-emotional and behavioral skill building to help the Learning Center students thrive outside of the classroom. All students have individualized education plans so they can soar, graduate and meet their goals.
SAFE partners with Omaha Public Schools to help children from kindergarten through middle school. The program provides home-based family support to children who are referred by their school personnel based on the youth’s behavior, attendance and other challenges they may be facing. SAFE is designed to strengthen the child’s experience at school and enhance their family life at home.
KidSquad is a unique CSI program, bringing comprehensive early childhood mental health support directly to childcare centers. With a combination of classroom support and individualized on-site therapy services, KidSquad meets each child’s needs in real time. When children are navigating big feelings and preparing for the transition to kindergarten, the classroom environment can become disrupted. KidSquad specialists work alongside the adults in a child’s life to create consistent, supportive environments where children can succeed. This additional support not only helps the child receiving care, but ripples throughout the classroom, the family and the community.
CSI recognizes that learning can look different for every child. Education should always be provided in the highest quality, regardless of the challenges a child might be facing. Everyday CSI’s staff interact with kids who have different needs; meeting them where they are, both in the community and on CSI’s campuses.
This Disability Pride Month, and every month, CSI celebrates the unique strengths of every child. We remain committed to supporting them as they grow, learn and achieve their goals.
Visit CSI’s childcare and education page on our website to learn more about the learning support and tools we provide.
