Classes
At Lighthouse, we place students based on a combination of age and academic skill level to ensure they’re learning in an environment that’s developmentally appropriate and academically supportive. This flexible model allows us to meet students exactly where they are—academically, socially, behaviorally, and emotionally.
Placement into levels is flexible and based on:
Academic assessments
Therapeutic needs
Social/emotional development
Family goals for their child’s growth
Students may move between groups or levels as they make progress.
Lower level
Academic Skill Focus:
Emerging & Foundational Skills
For younger students who are building the basics of academic learning or need early intervention to develop communication, behavior, and foundational academic skills.
Typical Student Profile:
Learning early reading skills (phonics, sight words)
Beginning numeracy (counting, number recognition, simple addition)
Needs significant support with classroom routines, social skills, and emotional regulation
May use Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC) or require intensive speech support
Learning readiness is just as important as academic progress
✔ Individualized instruction
✔ Low Ratios (5-6 Students with 1-2 Teachers)
✔ Integration of ABA strategies
Intermediate level
Academic Skill Focus:
Basic Academic Skills with Modifications
For elementary-aged students who have established basic academic skills but require ongoing modifications and individualized supports to access learning.
Typical Student Profile:
Reading independently or with support; working on comprehension and vocabulary
Writing words, sentences, or paragraphs depending on skill level
Math skills ranging from basic operations to fractions, with accommodations
Needs structured support for executive functioning (attention, organization, flexibility)
Developing friendships and social awareness, with coaching from teachers and therapists
✔ Small group instruction
✔ Focus on life skills alongside academics
✔ Strong emphasis on emotional regulation and peer interaction
Upper level
Academic Skill Focus:
Functional, Grade-Level, or Advanced Skills Depending on Individual Profile
For middle and high school-aged students who may be:
Working at grade level with support
Working on functional academics geared toward independence
Preparing for post-secondary education or vocational training
Typical Student Profile:
Grade-Level Learners: Capable of grade-level academic work with some accommodations (e.g., help with writing organization, social supports, or test anxiety)
Modified Academic Learners: Working on functional academics (money skills, life math, practical reading) with a focus on real-world application
Therapeutically Supported Learners: Benefit from a therapeutic environment to maintain emotional regulation while accessing academics