Transition Classrooms

Program Description

Located on district grounds, Transition Classrooms are specialized, integrated educational and counseling services designed to treat behavioral and emotional issues affecting academic progress. The structure and interventions in Transition Classrooms are rooted in principles of trauma-informed care and brain science. 

Program goals are to stop inappropriate behavior, assist students to learn different coping strategies, and show new positive behaviors. Specialized interventions utilize an evidence-based treatment framework to build resiliency and help students overcome trauma so they may return to the regular classroom setting. ­ 

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Rationale for Transition Classrooms

Developed as a proactive, cost-effective replacement for off-site programs, Transition Classrooms accommodate specific social, emotional, and academic needs of individual students. On-site Transition Classrooms provide effective interventions with more students, in less restrictive settings, and at a lower cost per student. A strong focus on parental engagement and proactive interventions, coupled with brain science, results in positive educational experiences for students with behavioral and academic challenges.

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Evidence Based Treatment Model

Laurel Life Transition Classrooms utilize the Attachment, Regulation, and Competency Treatment Framework. ARC is a framework for intervention with students and families who have experienced multiple and/or prolonged traumatic stress. 

ARC identifies three core domains that are frequently impacted among traumatized youth, and which are relevant to future resiliency. ARC provides a flexible, theoretical framework for child- and family-serving systems, core principles of intervention, and a guiding structure that is applied to the education setting.

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Potential for Savings

Transition Classrooms are designed to replace costly, off-site placements which are priced at a per-student rate and can be costly. Transition Classrooms are priced per classroom and designed to move students in and out easily, allowing more students to be served at a fixed cost. Expenses stemming from transporting students to off-site locations may also be reduced since the Transition Classrooms are located within a district building.

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