Archway Programs celebrated the grand opening of Archway Early Learning (AEL) with a ribbon-cutting ceremony mere moments before students arrived for their first day of the Extended School Year (ESY).
After nearly three years of development, the doors are open, and the new AEL program is now running. Designed for students ages 3 to 8 with diverse abilities, the program features a 2:1 student-to-staff ratio and a multi-sensory approach to learning. It emphasizes socially appropriate methods, responses, and play daily. All related services are provided on-site, and students have access to a new playground and exploration areas as part of the full-day program.
The new location boasts large, bright, and airy classrooms equipped with colorful artwork and a variety of work and play stations.
You could feel the energy and excitement as special education teachers Jessica Bonastia and Alexa Elliott eagerly awaited the arrival of their students. Bonastia created the scope and sequence for the program and looks forward to watching the students’ progress in the specialized environment.
“I am so proud to be a part of the opening of Archway Early Learning,” said Ms. Bonastia. “This program will provide our students with great opportunities to grow, learn, and succeed in a safe and specialized environment. We are excited for everything this opportunity brings!”
Each child’s individualized program is supported by a variety of therapies, often including Occupational Therapy (OT), Physical Therapy (PT), Speech and Language Therapy (S/L), and Behavior Intervention.
Students receive a personalized education that focuses on early literacy, numeracy, social skills, emotional regulation, and play, all taught through engaging and hands-on activities. Students develop phonemic awareness, letter recognition, and early writing skills while exploring math concepts, such as counting and basic operations, through interactive materials.
Social skills such as taking turns, following directions, and emotional expression are cultivated through group activities and peer interactions. Play-based learning fosters creativity, problem-solving, and positive relationships, supporting both academic and social development. Through sensory-rich, interactive experiences, students build essential skills for success in a nurturing environment.
Enrichment activities include swimming, art, music therapy, physical education, and sensory activities that are particularly beneficial for students with autism. Students may also follow a sensory diet created by their Occupational Therapist.
The entire staff is excited about the new learning opportunity, and Alexa Elliot, a special education teacher, expressed her enthusiasm for the new beginning.
“I am so excited to be starting this new journey with the Archway Early Learning program,” said Ms. Elliot. “A lot of hard work has gone into this program, and I am looking forward to our first day. I can’t wait to see the growth, learning, and memories that will take place in this building!”
If you would like more information about the AEL program, please contact Karen Tiver, Supervisor/School Intake, at 856 767-5757 ext. 403.