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| Elsmere Project. A basic skills vocational program for the trainable mentally disabled population, ages 5-21. |
Description The Elsmere Project addresses Goal 3 of the National Goals for Education by meeting the individual needs of TMH students by providing individualized scheduling of instruction in six essential areas: functional academics, socialization, family life, independent living, prevocation, and vocation. For each area, the curriculum has a double orientation. First, the program emphasizes the acquisition of self-sufficiency to the highest degree possible. The project prepares students to function in the community, to work, travel, shop, enjoy leisure time and relate to others. Second, vocational skills are presented through these learning areas. Thus, skills and attitudes necessary for engaging in work are emphasized in all learning areas. Each student is exposed to a simulated work atmosphere. Students are involved in rudimentary training and work activities such as assembling, packaging and collating. Students participate in a vocational training program which reflects community employment needs. On-the-job training is provided for students in the final stages of the training program. The Glassboro Trainable Assessment Profile (G-TAP), assists the teacher in placing students at the correct functioning level in each of the life skill areas. It is also a useful tool to measure yearly growth and assist the child study team in developing objectives for the Individual Educational Plan (IEP). Because area business leaders are potential employers of TMH citizens, community involvement is an integral part of the project. On-the-job training and student job placement occur through community involvement. Advisory groups and service organizations assist the project by providing information on the skills necessary to prepare students for particular jobs. Parent interest and participation is another component in the success of the Elsmere Project. Parents are provided the background required to perform activities at home that reinforce vocational skills taught at school.
Developmental Funding: USOE ESEA Titles III and IV-C.
JDRP No. 79-23 (5/17/79)
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