Connections Day School serves special education students in 1st through 12th grade who require an alternative educational environment that is both therapeutic and academically supportive. Our goal is to foster students’ academic achievement, social-emotional well-being, and personal growth. By integrating trauma-informed care, restorative practices, empathy, humor, and respect—along with consistent expectations and clearly established boundaries—our staff members build safe, nurturing, and supportive relationships that help students progress towards their goals.

 

Each student is assigned a primary therapist who provides individual therapy, case management, and crisis support as needed each week. Sessions address a broad range of topics, including: exploring the student’s reason for referral; strengthening grounding, coping, decision-making, problem-solving and self-advocacy skills; increasing insight and self-awareness; and enhancing communication and relationship skills. Students also participate in group therapy three times per week in their homeroom alongside same-age peers. In addition, therapists engage in ongoing consultation and professional development to broaden their expertise and ensure high-quality clinical care.

 

To maintain strong school/home collaboration, therapists provide weekly family contact to discuss student progress, successes, and opportunities for growth. They also support monthly Parent/Family Night activities and offer monthly family therapy sessions to help integrate family involvement into the student’s treatment. Therapists remain available throughout the school day to support the needs of students and families.

 

Because of the diverse needs of our student population, a full range of related services are also available throughout the school day, including: Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Art Therapy, Substance Abuse Counseling, Transition (post-high school) Counseling, and Psychiatric and Family Therapy Consultation.