Secondary Education
The Secondary Program prepares students for life beyond high school through academics, specialized instruction and meaningful opportunities to build independence.
Students receive individualized support based on their learning needs, communication preferences, literacy medium and postsecondary goals, whether they plan to continue their education, enter the workforce or participate in a community-based adult program.
Learning for Life After High School
Preparation for adulthood is integrated throughout the Secondary Program.
Instruction is shaped by each student’s strengths, interests and long-term goals. Students develop the academic, social, communication, technology and independent living skills needed for their next step.
Postsecondary pathways may include:
College or additional education
Competitive or supported employment
Vocational training
Community-based adult programs
Independent or supported living
Individualized Academics and Accessible Instruction
All Secondary Program students receive instruction in the general education curriculum aligned with the Pennsylvania Core Standards.
Instruction may draw from resources such as Unique Learning System, Prentice Hall and Fearon materials, depending on each student’s needs and educational goals. Small class sizes allow teachers to provide both small-group and individualized instruction across content areas.
Students have immediate access to educational materials in the formats that work best for them, including:
- Braille
- Large print
- Audio
- Tactile materials
- Accessible digital resources
- Assistive and adaptive technology
Highly qualified teachers prepare and adapt materials so students can participate meaningfully in classroom instruction and demonstrate what they know.
Expanded Core Curriculum
The Expanded Core Curriculum addresses skills that students who are blind or visually impaired may not learn incidentally and that require direct, specialized instruction.
Areas of instruction include:
- Compensatory and functional academic skills
- Orientation and mobility
- Social interaction
- Independent living
- Recreation and leisure
- Sensory efficiency
- Assistive technology
- Career education
- Self-determination
These skills are incorporated throughout the school day and help students build confidence, independence and greater access to their school, home and community environments.
Integrated Therapy and Collaborative Support
Therapists work alongside classroom staff through OSB’s Integrated Therapy Model.
By providing services within the classroom when appropriate, therapists can collaborate directly with teachers and help students practice important skills during everyday instruction and routines.
This multidisciplinary approach may include support from:
- Speech-language therapists
- Occupational therapists
- Physical therapists
- Orientation and mobility specialists
- Other related-service professionals based on the student’s needs
Collaboration between teachers, therapists and support staff helps students participate more fully in their education and reinforces skills throughout the school day.
A Safe and Supportive Learning Environment
OSB is committed to maintaining a safe, accessible and supportive environment for every student.
The school follows applicable local, state and federal health, safety and education requirements and updates its procedures as guidance changes.
Classroom practices, staffing and student supports are designed to help students remain engaged in learning while receiving the individualized assistance they need.
Preparing Students for What Comes Next
The Secondary Program combines academics, accessibility, specialized instruction and real-world skill development to help students move toward adulthood with confidence.
For more information about the Secondary program at OSB, contact Lisa Lisicki, Educational Program Supervisor.