Pathways to Success Program (EDG)

Disabilities Addressed/Student Profile

The Pathways to Success Program (EDG) is designed for students who require individual support related to social, emotional and academic challenges. Generally, students exhibit behaviors associated with the following disorders and disabilities which hinder and significantly hinder their overall school functioning:

• Asperger’s Syndrome

• Attention disorders

• Behavior disorders

• Bipolar

• Emotional disorders

• Organization and learning disabilities

Entry Criteria & Process

Students may be referred by a variety of sources, including but not limited to:

• Administrators

• Guidance counselors

• Guidance/adjustment counselors

• Medical professionals

• Outside agencies

• Parents

• School psychologists

• Service providers

• Teachers

Team Evaluations

Team evaluations administered by school district personnel, in addition to any outside agency evaluations are considered to determine student need and eligibility. The EDG staff will review the referral material and observe the student in their current placement. Placement decisions for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) will be finalized through the IEP Team meeting process.

Program Goals

The goal of the program is to provide students with an array of supports which allows each individual to succeed within the school environment and generalize skills across all settings including community and home. The end goal is for students to transition to the mainstream environment and become independent, successful learners. 

The teacher-student relationship and the promotion of adult/student trust is a cornerstone of the program.

Program Description

The EDG Program provides extra support to those students in the areas of social, emotional and academic need. It is a behavior modification program that allows students to earn incentives by:

• Staying focused

• Completing all schoolwork assignments

• Controlling their behavior during the school day

The program works on a point-chart system that students carry with them to their classes and have their teacher complete. Students receive academic support in a substantially separate pullout classroom at least one period each day. Students are monitored and supported by EDG staff in their mainstream classes.

Staffing

Currently, the program is staffed by two Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) certified special educators and one paraprofessional. The staffing of the program depends upon the needs of the students and the number of students requiring services.