Our Lower School offers a number of curriculum options, designed not only to help students excel in academics, but also to develop the areas in which children who are visually impaired need special help such as braille reading, mobility training, accessing technology, social skills, leisure skills and skills for independent living.
The Lower School curriculum is aligned with the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks and the Expanded Core Curriculum for Blind and Visually Impaired Students. Every element of Perkins' curriculum allows students to explore their world and reach their greatest potential. From academics to everyday skills, here are some key elements of our curriculum:
Academics:
- English Language Arts
- Mathematics
- History and Social Science
- Science and Technology
- Braille Reading and Writing
- Readiness Skills
Clinical Services:
- Psychological Services
- Behavior Management
- Counseling
- Low Vision Evaluation and Services
- Occupational Therapy
- Physical Therapy
- Sensorimotor Integration
- Speech and Language Therapy
- Family Support groups
Music:
- Developmental Music Therapy
- Chorus
- Handbells Ensemble
- Instrumental Ensemble
- Piano Lessons
- Braille Music
- Print Music
Special Subjects:
- Art
- Prevocational Workshop
- Cooking
- Keyboarding Skills
- Horticulture
- Horseback Riding
Physical Education:
- Adaptive Physical Education
- Adaptive Wheelchair Physical Education
- Exercise and Fitness
- Group Games
- Swimming
Daily Living Skills:
- Community Experience
- Recreation and Leisure Time Activities
- Self-help Skills
- Social Skills
Besides the academic curriculum, the services listed below are offered for each student as appropriate:
Support services
- Orientation and Mobility Instruction
- Adapted Physical Education
- Computer/Technology
- Residential
- Transition
Clinical services
- Psychology
- Behavioral Consultation
- Speech Therapy
- Audiology
- Physical Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Social Work
- Health Services