• We offer standards-based, small-group and 1:1 instruction with progress monitoring aligned with goals/objectives delineated in students’ Individualized Education Program (IEP)
• Curriculum design and instruction incorporate project-based learning, integrated lessons, and real-life applications. A variety of alternative teaching strategies and behavior management techniques are employed in the classroom to maximize student success
• Data-driven decision-making through intensive, ongoing progress monitoring of the techniques and strategies implemented across providers and settings 

Clinical/Behavioral Support Services

• A multi-tiered, school-wide positive behavior framework is focused on proactive strategies and reinforcement to increase positive pro-social skills among all students
• Collaboration between clinicians and teachers to design safe, supportive environments for all the students
• Development and implementation of individualized strategies that foster positive, pro-social behaviors in school and in the community
• Opportunities to practice social skills with developmentally appropriate peers

Vocational Services 

Innovative community-based programming supports students in acquiring the necessary skills for competitive employment and post-secondary options.

EASTCONN CDT services include:

• Assessment of skills and abilities
• Participation in small group/individualized instruction and community tours to local businesses
• Guest speakers share their trades, education, and experiences
• Paid Internships for students 14 years and older
• Assistance with applying to post-secondary options, including college/vocational schools and/or planning for transition services

Home-School Collaboration

• On-going communication between school staff (teachers, clinicians, administrators) and families to maximize student success at school, at home and in the community
• Support for families interested in obtaining services from community-based agencies/individual providers
• Open houses, family nights, parent support groups and parent-teacher conferences

Our team collaborates on a daily basis to develop and implement assessment-driven programming for students with diverse needs. We work together with districts and families to identify priorities for instruction and systematically implement programs across providers and settings to improve student outcomes.

We have a variety of specialists and educators:

• Special Education Teachers
• Trained instructors and instructional assistants
• Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs)
• Licensed psychologists
• Clinicians
• Consulting psychiatrist
• Vocational coaches
• Assistive Technology (AT) Specialists
• Related Services providers
• Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs)
• Physical Therapists (PTs)
• Occupational Therapists (OTs)
• School Social Workers
• School Counselors

• The Home/Sending district sends a referral packet to EASTCONN CDT administrators.
• The Referral Packet must include the student's most recent physical and immunization records.
• EASTCONN CDT reviews the materials and schedules an interview with the student and family.
• This interview is conducted at EASTCONN CDT in Willimantic and includes the building principal and a member of our clinical staff.
• Following the interview, the EASTCONN CDT team makes a determination about acceptance into the program. The sending district is then notified of the decision.
• If all stakeholders are in agreement, a placement PPT is held to determine the student's start date within EASTCONN CDT.

• How many students are in each class? What is the staffing ratio?
•      Each classroom has no more than seven students, with at least three staff. We have a certified special education teacher who case manages all the students in their classroom, as well as a special education instructor and at least one instructional assistant.
• Do students ever return to their home school?
•      Yes,  our goal is always to consider the least restrictive environment (LRE) for each student. If a student demonstrates their readiness to return to a less restrictive environment, EASTCONN CDT will work in tandem with the sending district to develop a transition plan to ensure the successful return of the student.
• Do you have after-school activities?
•      At this time, given the nature of our programs and how many sending towns we accommodate, we are unable to hold after school-activities. We do, however, have clubs built into our weekly schedule. Students choose from a number of clubs that meet their interests. In the past we have offered such clubs as fishing, baking, sports, knitting, arts and crafts, and music, to name a few.
• What are the typical school day hours?
•      Our school hours are Monday-Thursday 8 a.m.-2 p.m. and Friday 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
• How does my child get transportation to the school?
•       Transportation is arranged between the sending district and the parents/guardians.