OUR CURRICULUM

Our goal is to offer a diverse range of programs that help each student gain real proficiency in the vocational field of their choice. We are committed to meeting you where you are—providing instruction that aligns with how you learn best.

We aim to deliver every service and learning experience with compassion, professionalism, and a genuine desire to see you succeed.

That’s why our curriculum is designed to be comprehensive, flexible, and responsive—tailored not only to your unique strengths and goals, but also to the needs of the communities you will one day serve.

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Mass Frameworks

The Starting Point: The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has designed a base curriculum for technical training schools. "Massachusetts Career and Technical Education Programs (CTE) prepare students to graduate with skills and credentials that will provide them with advanced employment opportunities to enter the workforce immediately upon graduation. CTE Programs also provide students with learning experiences that enable them to see and understand their future career paths, including continued education."

Modified Framework

In teaching adults with cognitive disabilities, over time, teachers have come to realize that programs must be flexible to meet the students needs. As a result, we start with The Massachusetts Frameworks and modified this to include the programming from which we believe our students will most benefit; and also to adapt to the learning needs of our students. Once our students are immersed in the programming year, teachers will adjust and adapt the programming based on aptitude, interest level, and realistic pace of the program. Many special education programs plan out the curriculum months at a time. As an innovative program, we intend to follow this model with special education teachers and vocational teachers meeting regularly to fully plan for and address the needs of our students. The basis of an innovative program is "The freedom to structure curriculum and assessment practices to best meet students' learning needs."

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Landscaping Example

A strong foundation in the technical aspects of each program is essential for success. Our training is designed to be highly hands-on, supported by classroom discussions, visual aids, videos, and other learning tools. This multi-sensory approach helps students retain knowledge and build confidence in performing real-world tasks.

While our goal is to expose students to a broad range of skills, we recognize that each learner progresses at their own pace. Therefore, not all students may cover every area listed, and that's okay. Our focus is on mastery and confidence in the areas each student is ready for.

Possible areas of study may include, but are not limited to:

  • Safety, Tools & Equipment Use
  • Trade-Specific Vocabulary
  • Plant Knowledge
  • Basics of Landscape Design
  • Basic Hardscaping
  • Snow Blowing & Seasonal Outdoor Activities
  • Career Readiness & Job Skills
  • Communication & Customer Interaction
  • Sales & Business Knowledge
  • Hanging Basket Care (as time and interest allow)
  • Handy Work (as time and interest allow): Fence Installation, Power Washing, etc.
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Summer Internship
  • Life Skills
  • Mind Body Techniques

Interested in learning more? We’re here to help!

If this sounds like a program you are interested in, then we want to hear from you! Come join an amazing learning experience!