DSPS

Communication for the Blind

This class gives persons with visual disabilities the opportunity to interact with peers and participate in structured discussions, games and activities that improve or maintain skills in the areas of communication, problem-solving, memory, self-advocacy and self-expression and "brain fitness".

Disability and Employment: Independent Vocational Exploration

For individuals interested in vocational rehabilitation process to secure competitive non-supported employment without assistance of a job developer or coach. Emphasis is on defining career options based on functional abilities and limitations. Topics include work-life balance, hiring discrimination laws, benefits planning and negotiation of workplace accommodations. Course utilizes assessment tools and research of resources to help explore local labor market trends and develop a career path.

Stroke - Communication

For students experiencing receptive and/or expressive language difficulty (aphasia) resulting from a stroke or other acquired brain impairment. Class focuses on improving overall functional communication skill in a group setting. Exercises include listening, speaking, reading, writing, and structured conversation. May also be useful to caregivers.

Coping with Acquired Brain Injury

Students with mild acquired brain injury learn strategies to improve attention, memory, organization, planning, reasoning, and communication in a supportive group setting. Classroom tasks include following directions, problem-solving, time management, verbal and written skills. Emphasis is placed on student responsibility, reliability, goal-setting, and organization.

Job Search Skills

Course designed for students with disabilities. Emphasis on exploration of individual skills and interests, work options, communication skills and appropriate work behaviors. Small group work on developing attitudes, self-confidence, and competencies to locate, secure, and retain employment.

Accessible Theatre Arts

Designed for students with disabilities to provide life-skill proficiencies essential to the fulfillment of academic, career technical, and personal goals in theatre arts. Students explore and develop abilities in creative self-expression, through participation in a variety of accessible dramatic experiences, increasing their range of physical expression, developing creative verbal self-expression, and learning to work collaboratively with others. Process may lead to dramatic productions.

Accessible Arts and Crafts

Arts and crafts adapted for all disabilities. Introduces basic art concepts and crafts skills. Students create projects using materials and processes increasingly more challenging as the course progresses and their abilities develop. Adaptive equipment and techniques introduced as needed. May lead to exhibition of student art work.

Adapted Fitness and Wellness

An introduction to physical fitness and wellness for students with disabilities. Emphasis is placed on creating a modified exercise program to increase physical activity and cardiovascular conditioning. Course includes exercises such as walking, stretching, wheelchair movement, body weight movements and stress reduction techniques to enhance general wellness.