Increasingly public school systems and agencies are asked to meet the diverse and complex needs of children with social, neurological, learning and behavioral challenges. YouthCare collaborates closely with these organizations to design, implement and further develop effective interventions.
Consultations to schools involve a team-based approach centering on academics, socialization, behavior and communication for individual students or classrooms. Consultations are also available for start-up or existing summer programs. District-wide consultations provide a systemic analysis of service delivery to children with social-cognitive deficits. YouthCare also provides professional development workshops and training.
For more information contact dmcleod@partners.org.
A Description of Systems Anaylsis
YouthCare has been recently involved in some exciting work with local school districts. Historically, we have consulted with and/or offered training to schools regarding individual students or with programs within schools. Dot Lucci, our Director of Training and Consultation has developed a systems analysis tool called the Autism Spectrum Disorder Needs Assessment Protocol that affords school systems the opportunity to assess their functioning in relationship to students with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Over the past two years we have provided this analysis for districts as they seek to assess how well children with Autism Spectrum Disorders are being served academically and socially within their systems.
The ASD Needs Assessment Protocol is a comprehensive method of analysis that includes all constituents within a school system - parents, staff, administrators and students (when applicable) . The ASD Needs Assessment Protocol consists of three parts: the Needs Assessment Survey, Classroom Observation Guide and Structured Interview Form. These varying formats allow data to be collected and analyzed with both quantitative and qualitative analysis. The ASD Needs Assessment Protocol can be individually tailored towards each school districts' profile of service delivery options and their specific questions and needs. The ASD Needs Assessment Protocol was developed to encompass general education best practices (i.e. leadership style and philosophy, building atmosphere, social-emotional learning, etc) as well as specific best practices related to the education of children with ASD.
One current project with the Needs Assessment Protocol is with the Newton Public Schools (NPS). MGH/ YouthCare and NPS worked collaboratively to individualize the surveys to reflect their commitment to inclusive practices and specific self-contained models of ABA instruction for some students with autism. We visited every school, observed students and program models and interviewed staff, including both general and special education staff. We also interviewed administrators at the building level and at the central office level. Parents were interviewed representing a cross-section of grades, ages, and programs. In addition to the face to face contact/interviews, we offered the surveys online for staff, administrators and parents. A former colleague of Scott McLeod's, Ben Locke, PhD, provided a sophisticated web based survey tool that streamlined data collection immensely (see www.psychdata.com).
Upon completion of the interviews, observations and surveys an analysis is completed of both the qualitative and quantitative data. A final report is written that summaries the data which highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the district and offers recommendations. Being involved in these analyses across the Commonwealth is fascinating and has proven to be a valuable tool for school systems when looking to improve or replicate their practices. We applaud the proactive and systemic approach that many area districts are now taking with students diagnosed with an ASD.
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