Our school has long been known for our strong connection to the families we serve. Many of our team members, but especially our Coordinator of Family Services and in-house social worker, know our families very well—their needs, their family dynamics, their children. We want to be there for them in any way we can, to support their goals and empower their families. Accordingly, key family support and family services staff members will accompany students and parents to doctor appointments, dental appointments, bloodwork draws, and the like. We often provide transportation for a family to and from medical appointments, supply clothes and diapers for students when needed, hold parent support groups, and offer assistance in negotiating the Rhode Island systems of care. These are just some of the ways family support figures prominently in our program model.
Rapport building begins when parents/guardians first meet with the Coordinator of Family Services during their child’s initial intake; from there, much time and effort is spent building a close bond with our families, maintained by regular, ongoing contact. Our team understands the joys, as well as the challenges, that a family may face while raising an individual with special needs. We want to be sure that we’re here to help with any and all obstacles that may arise.
