CTC Academy’s State Approved Elementary, Middle School, High School and Transition Programs at Oakland
Comprehensive Grade Continuum & Program Structure
- Serves students from elementary through high school, including transition years (ages 18–21)
- Full-day program (8:40 AM – 2:45 PM), 10 months per year
- Each grade span and program is designed to support student growth through all stages of development
Extended School Year (ESY) Program
- Five-week summer session (July–August) designed to prevent regression and support continued learning
- Mirrors the academic curriculum and therapy services of the school year
- Includes recreational and enjoyable summer activities
- Run by the same faculty, at the same location, and on a full-day schedule
Assistive Technology (AT)
We use innovative assistive technology such as text-to-speech apps, switches, augmentative and alternative communication devices, and more to ensure that every student can benefit from classroom activities. AT helps personalize instruction, enhance accessibility, and promote independence, communication, and collaboration among students.
Serving Diverse Learners
- CTC Academy’s Oakland Campus supports students and young adults with a wide range of disabilities, including those who are medically fragile
- Programs are designed to:
- Foster autonomy and innovative learning
- Strengthen classroom and social participation through therapeutic support
- Enhance each student’s unique strengths and potential
- Every student’s program is guided by an Individualized Education Program (IEP), collaboratively developed by teachers, therapists, and parents/guardians
Clinics
Throughout the year, we host on-site physiatry clinics – consulting on treatment plans – as well as equipment/vendor clinics to help families with selection, modifications, and maintenance for equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers, and orthotics.
Special Courses:
Students in every grade span participate in each special class on a weekly basis.
Therapeutic Swim
Our on-site, state-of-the-art, indoor heated swimming pool provides a supportive environment where students can build gross motor skills, strength, coordination, and mobility. Sessions are led by aqua-certified physical and occupational therapists, ensuring that each activity is both engaging and therapeutically beneficial.
Adapted Physical Education Program
CTC Academy’s Adapted Physical Education Program promotes independence, communication, and sportsmanship through multiple weekly sessions. Adaptive physical education helps students develop their motor skills and a lifelong love for physical activity and sports.
Yoga Program
Our Yoga Program promotes student growth and readiness for learning, improving strength, flexibility, muscle tone, and overall well-being through guided practice.
Art Education
CTC Academy’s Art Education Program promotes creativity, confidence, and cognitive development through various artistic activities, enhancing social skills and fine motor abilities in a supportive and fun environment.
Music Education
Our Music Education Program fosters creativity and skill development through the use of adapted instruments, rhythm, singing, and performance, enhancing auditory processing, coordination, and self-expression.
Grade Span Special Programs/Electives:
Theater Education
High School
Our theatre class fosters students’ learning about a play by exploring its characters, plot, and themes. Through rehearsals, students build creative expression and teamwork skills. The semester culminates in a performance that celebrates participation and creativity.
Clubs
High School and Middle School
Our high school and middle school leisure clubs offer students opportunities to socialize, explore their interests, and develop life skills. These clubs might include art, music, games, gardening, cooking, or sports.
Therapeutic Electives:
Each grade span participates in an elective class that is designed, planned, and implemented by a therapeutic team to support the carryover and generalization of skills.
Elementary – Let’s M.O.V.E.
CTC Academy’s own “Let’s M.O.V.E.” (Movement Opportunities Variety of Experiences) program unites educators and therapists to enhance motor skills, coordination, and physical awareness through inclusive movement experiences. The “Let’s M.O.V.E.” program is showcased for parents annually.
Middle School – Dance
CTC Academy’s Dance program blends music, movement, and socialization to enhance coordination, expression, and confidence through individualized instruction. Educators and therapists work together to support students in developing motor skills, rhythm, and self-expression through creative movement experiences. The Dance program culminates in an annual recital performance where students showcase their growth and talents for families.
High School – Horticulture
CTC Academy’s dedicated Horticulture program combines hands-on gardening with educational and therapeutic lessons, building skills in science, math, language arts, and pre-vocational development. Students grow and care for a variety of plants while learning responsibility, teamwork, and environmental awareness. The program culminates in a Farmer’s Market sale, where students apply their skills by preparing, presenting, and selling items to the CTC school community.
Community-Based Instruction (CBI)
Starting in middle school, CTC Academy’s Community-Based Instruction (CBI) supports students as they apply academic, life, and therapeutic skills in real-world settings. CBI trips include – but are not limited to – retail stores, museums, libraries, and community events; fostering independence and skill generalization beyond the classroom.
Peer Connections:
At CTC Academy, we believe that peer opportunities are essential for fostering social growth, confidence, and inclusion. Students across all grade spans participate in programs with local schools to build meaningful partnerships and shared experiences.
Through initiatives such as Best Buddies (Elementary), Cool Connections (Middle School), and Day in Our Shoes (High School and STEP), students from neighboring schools visit CTC Academy throughout the year. These experiences create opportunities for friendship, fun, and learning together within the broader community.
Field Trips:
Field trips are a valuable part of the educational experience for our elementary-grade students. These outings offer real-world learning opportunities that reinforce classroom instruction, support IEP goals, and promote social and emotional growth.
S.T.E.P. (Student Transition and Education Program) – Post High School Program – ages 18 through 21
The mission of the STEP (Student Transition and Employment Preparation) Program is to support students in making a successful transition from school to adult life. We connect students with meaningful opportunities and resources that promote independence, self-confidence, and full participation in the community.
This mission is achieved through a comprehensive and personalized approach that includes:
- Real-World Experiences & Functional Academics
Learning is aligned with each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals, emphasizing practical, real-life applications. - Social Skills Development
Weekly social groups help build key skills such as:
Problem-solving- Decision-making
- Self-advocacy
- Vocational Experiences
Students engage in job training both within the school (including the CTC Market) and in community settings to develop:- Employability skills
- Strong work habits
- Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
Daily routines incorporate practice in essential life skills needed for independent living.
Leisure & Recreation Activities
Students are introduced to a variety of hobbies and recreational options to support the development of personal interests and healthy lifestyles.
29-01 Berkshire Road
