EDUCATIONAL SERVICES

APNMI’s affiliated school, La Gaviota, was formally licensed and accredited in 1998 for the provision of general education to children with disabilities from birth through age 18 and in 2003 was expanded to include an adult program. The school is having more influence within the educational and medical community each year. Local doctors are referring patients and more children are being enrolled as infants. The school has a current enrollment of approximately 45 children and 20 adults.

Therapy services: All persons enrolled in La Gaviota that require physical therapy receive daily group sessions under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist. The student’s mothers are taught the necessary exercises for their children and are assisted by volunteers.

Home support and distance learning: A young Mennonite boy from a distant community receives his speech therapy and education at home using materials and an education plan furnished by La Gaviota. His program is adapted through continued evaluations and interviews with his parents.

Early Intervention: (birth – 3 years old): The Gaviota staff works with infants and their parents teaching methods of interaction and therapy designed to help improve the child’s cognitive and physical development. The parents are also supported in their adjustment to their child’s disability.

Preschool Program (3 – 5 years old): The children have classroom activities where they have the opportunity to learn, complete tasks, and interact with other students. They are also prepared to enter regular kindergarten whenever possible.

Special Education Program (No age limit): This program is designed for persons that developmentally will always need therapy and extra care. These are the children that remain a part of La Gaviota for their entire lives and are an integral part of the school family.

Adult Program (18 years and older): The adults enrolled in this program participate in educational courses and enjoy many social activities that include eating in restaurants, attending plays and concerts, and visiting the museum. They are learning to work as a group as they assemble greeting cards and create ceramic pieces that they sell. They are learning to manage their money and have earned their school uniforms.