Chantelle Nelsen told us about the purpose of the ESU #1 Tower School for our vocational visit on January 10. It is a 202-day Level III Special Education placement and provides an alternative placement for contracted services for school districts in the area. Thank you to club member Carol Dunning for organizing this interesting tour!
There are two specialized classrooms with placement based on students needs. Chantelle told us the school focuses on transition, daily living, vocational, academic, functional, social, and behavioral skills. They use the Boys Town and ABLLS curriculum.
The average length of stay is one year. The goal for all students is increased independence and success in the least restrictive environment possible. The school has a waiting list of students. Typical enrollment is between 32-37 students with staffing based upon student need. They work under a point system, earning positive or negative points based upon their behavior. Chantelle also gave us a tour of the building and explained how the various areas are utilized.
