Statement of Services

Morning Star School provides a strong educational foundation to students with learning differences including ADD, Processing Deficits, High Functioning Autism, Mild Intellectual Disabilities and Specific Learning Disabilities such as Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia, Executive Functioning Deficits, Non-Verbal Learning Disabilities and Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit. In his letter to the Romans, St. Paul teaches us that we are to use our different gifts in accordance with the Grace that God has given us. At Morning Star School, students experience the teachings of St. Paul in an environment where their individual talents are recognized, praised and nurtured.

What We Provide

INDIVIDUALIZED ACADEMIC INSTRUCTION

We believe that each child is an individual with unique learning styles. With a highly structured learning environment and curriculum individualized to fit each child’s needs, we are dedicated to helping each of our students perform to their highest potential. We recognize that it is critical for each child to acquire a realistic assessment of individual potential and develop an attitude of respect, service, and concern for other members of society.

RELIGIOUS INSTRUCTION

Religion is an essential part of Morning Star’s school-wide curriculum and supports the mission of the school by promoting Catholic spiritual values. Catholic social teaching is integrated into all subject areas. Students participate in daily devotions over the intercom, attend monthly liturgies, participate in service projects and participate in student retreat days.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

All students participate regularly in physical education.  Students work on fine and gross motor skills, manipulative skills, rhythm, games, physical fitness, social skills and team sports. Our physical education program integrates academic curriculum with physical activity. Students learn leadership skills while engaging in healthy activities. Emphasis is placed on teamwork and cooperation.

MUSIC & ART EDUCATION

Through music and art classes the students are exposed to both visual and performance art. Students work on art projects in a variety of mediums including pencil, ink, paint, chalk, crayon as well as crafts. In music, students not only practice vocal skills but learn to play various multi-cultural instruments. Rhythm and movement are used to enhance the music experience. Students are able to participate in our band, choir, talent show, and musical. Students may participate in Young Rembrandts art programs or Musicworks Band programs after school.

SPEECH AND LANGUAGE SERVICES

Morning Star School offers speech and language therapy through the services of a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist. Evidence-based speech therapy may emphasize improvements in the areas of articulation, voice, fluency, and receptive/expressive language skills.

BEHAVIOR SUPPORT

Behavior support is provided by a board certified analyst who works with students on behavior and social skills individually and in small groups. Consultative services are also offered to the classroom teachers. Through individualized instructional and behavioral plans, we help each child develop academically, physically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually.

PET THERAPY

Morning Star School is excited and grateful for the opportunity to integrate Pet Therapy into the services we offer. Our golden retriever service dogs are provided through the HEAL foundation and trained by Project Chance. Pet Therapy provides behavioral and emotional support to students and improves student responsibility and independence through care and nurturing. Our Service Dogs coax students with anxiety out of their cars in the morning, have lunch with students that have met specific behavior goals, and even enjoy listening to stories read by students who are fearful of reading in front of a classroom.

SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION

We are proud to offer sacramental prep programs specifically designed to enable students with disabilities access to the same preparation as their non-disabled peers.

LIFE & SOCIAL SKILLS INSTRUCTION

Life and social skills instruction is integrated throughout the school day. Students are taught specific problem solving, time management, and organizational skills. These skills are reinforced in classroom instruction, behavior therapy, physical education, and religious instruction.