Services & Programs
Academics
Our fifty five students, ages 5 to 21, are currently grouped in six classes according to the range of their abilities. To optimize the learning experience, the teacher/student ratio is low, with plenty of individual attention. Some sessions are conducted in groups, but most academic lessons such as Reading, Writing, and Math are taught individually.
Our trained educators utilize cutting-edge approaches to teaching in a variety of learning style. Some students thrive on visual learning methods, while others benefit from tactile, activity-based techniques. Still others learn best through auditory input or multi sensory stimulation. Each child at Ohr V’Daas RISE is taught in the manner that best suits his/her cognitive abilities.
The autistic program at Ohr V’Daas RISE has been remarkably successfully in servicing children across the autistic spectrum, allowing them to achieve progress through intensive individualized programming. ABA (applied behavioral analysis). TEACH (treatment and education of autistic and other related communication handicapped children) and PECS( pyramid education consultants) are fundamental elements of this program.
For most students, the basic curriculum includes English Reading and Writing, Math, Science and Social Studies. Gym, Music, Dance, and Art classes serve to enhance their education and contribute to the lively and happy atmosphere at Ohr V’daas RISE.
Life Skills
A comprehensive life skills program is a core component of our curriculum, helping our students prepare for the challenges of adulthood. Crucial communication and social skills are reinforced and modeled. Students are instructed on how to deal properly with a variety of daily living situations.
Through play-based learning, they learn to cope with their specific challenges and to interact successfully with the world at large.The goal is to achieve a maximum level of self sufficiency and independence Children, who previously could barely communicate learn to shop, to prepare meals, to clean, and to articulate their thoughts when dealing with others. Great emphasis is placed on personal hygiene and grooming techniques are taught and rehearsed.
Behavior Modification Program
Our staff utilizes a team approach in our school-wide behavior modification program. Through a variety of motivational techniques, students learn to behave and express themselves in an acceptable constructive manner.
This is especially important for those students who may be intelligent and high functioning but tend to be impulsive or aggressive. These children benefit greatly from this guidance and eventually learn to control their instincts and function well in a mainstream setting.
Prevocational/Vocational program
We at Ohr V’Daas RISE are especially proud of our vocational training programs that train our students to ultimately advance towards gainful employment. Students at Ohr V’Daas RISE can enroll in our prevocational program to begin preparing for a job. They are given specific tasks and taught to advance the speed and accuracy of their work. They learn to stay focused in a simulated work environment and to follow instructions. Social skills training is emphasized as vital in the success of this program.
After two years, students are given the opportunity to work at actual job sites together with a job coach. Various sites are offered and students are encouraged to decide which one suits them best. The coach sets specific goals as the student progresses and adjusts to the work environment. Eventually, the coach steps aside and allows the student to work independently.
It is most rewarding for us at Ohr V’Daas RISE to watch our young adults advance to full employment. Some of our former students work independently today in the field of education, in various businesses, and in the food service industry. Others are attending college, having been fully mainstreamed. It is impossible to describe the tremendous boost to self esteem that occurs as a result of independent employment.
Limudei Kodesh
At Ohr V’Daas RISE the yiddishe neshomos of our special children are introduced to Torah and mitzvos inour cultural program, outside of school hours. Our dedicated Rebbeim and Moros offer a full Limudei Kodesh curriculum. From the basics of davening, the children go on to learn Parsha, Halacha, Middos, and more. They are taught to celebrate Shabbos and Yom Tovim. They daven and they say brochos. Many of our awe inspiring talmidim have celebrated bar mitzvahs and have made siyumim. Clearly, they are making tremendous spiritual strides.
Parents are overwhelmed with emotion when they see how their children overcome their challenges and relate to the Torah and mitzvos, each to his own ability. 
It is indeed heartwarming to watch them function as active members of klal yisroel, participating in the Shabbos seudah, reciting the Mah Nishtana, making brochos and so much more. The sparks of their holy neshomos are ignited and come to life here at Ohr V’Daas RISE.
