FAQs

How are children arranged into the different classrooms?

Students are primarily arranged by age in the four classrooms. Our younger classroom generally serves students between the ages of 9 and 14 years. Two middle classrooms support students from 14 to 18 years, and the older students, aged 18 years and above are in the older classroom.
My child is 8 years old. Can he be referred?

As the age ranges within each classroom vary over time, there have been times when we have been able to accept a younger child.
What is the teacher-to-student ratio within the classrooms?

Our overall teacher-to-student ratio allows for each student to receive three hours of 1:1 instruction and three hours of 1:2 instruction each day. In the event that your child’s IEP calls for 1:1 instruction throughout the day, arrangements are made with your school district for that to be provided at The Darnell School.
How many days/year are you open?

We are open 221 days each year.
What are your hours of operation?

Our school day runs from 9:00 to 3:00. The building is open from 8:00 – 4:00.
What type of training is provided to staff?

All staff receive comprehensive training as new employees to orient them to the school, its philosophy and practices, and to ensure that they are skilled in the implementation of each student’s individual education program. Staff are also required to be CPR and First Aid certified. Additionally, all staff participate in ongoing professional development training that addresses a range of topics including teaching strategies, applied behavior analysis, safety, curriculum, communication, and team building.
What transitional services do you provide?

We provide a full array of transitional services to our students. Commencing with our vocational/transitional assessment, we outline a multi-year plan to systematically increase students’ independent living skills and move them towards their post-secondary education goals and/or their employment goals. In the area of employment, students typically begin with in-school vocational training that allows for a sampling of career areas. As they get older, they transition into community-based internships for additional exploration. Vocational training culminates in a job tailored to each student’s capabilities and needs.
Does The Darnell School provide home services?

As part of our regular curriculum, we offer parents the opportunity to have a teacher come to their home each week for two hours to receive consultation and to work alongside their child on issues that are specific to the home setting. Services beyond these can be arranged through our Supplemental Services.
How do you communicate with families?

Daily logs are completed by each Head Teacher and sent home in the child’s backpack. In addition, teachers and parents are in regular contact via either email or phone to ensure that each party is up-to-date on services being provided.
How can parents get involved?

The Darnell School has a Parent Advisory Council (DSPAC) which meets on a quarterly basis. New members are always welcome.
What is the admissions process?

Parents are always welcome to tour the school if they wish to observe our program and get more information. If you are interested in having your child attend The Darnell School, please let your School Administrator know. The School Administrator will make a formal referral to The Darnell School, and once it is received, you will be contacted.