If you have been at Gersh Academy for any amount of time, you already know we are more than just a school; we are a community deeply committed to providing a nurturing and inclusive environment tailored to the unique needs of each student.
Every child’s educational journey is personal, filled with distinct challenges and triumphs. That’s why our educational philosophy isn’t one-size-fits-all; we use a careful, empathetic approach that prioritizes understanding each student’s individual experiences and adapting to their specific needs.
Understanding our CPS Model
The CPS (Collaborative and Proactive Solutions) model is absolutely central to our program and operates on the premise that challenging behaviors in students are often indicators of unmet needs or skills deficits. Often, these behaviors arise when students face demands beyond their current capacities to manage or adapt, potentially due to challenges with essential skills like flexibility, tolerance to frustration, and problem-solving.
From this perspective, we see behaviors not as barriers but as opportunities for personal and educational development. We work with the students to discover the reasons behind their struggles, and actively involve them in crafting solutions. Going through this process equips our students with the tools and confidence needed for lifelong success, both academically and personally.
A Shift from Traditional Disciplinary Measures
Traditionally, schools have relied on a system of rewards and punishments to manage student behavior. However, we shift away from this conventional approach.
Instead, our strategy involves understanding the specific expectations students struggle with and collaborating with the students to come up with practical solutions. Our long-term goal through this method is to enhance their autonomy and resilience.
Integrating CPS Across Our Programs
Our commitment to the CPS model is reflected in how we structure our educational programs. We use this model alongside our other programming, including adhering to the New York State Common Core standards, so our students are prepared for academic assessments, as well as real-life challenges beyond the classroom.
Whether our students are preparing for college, planning to do vocational training, seeking immediate employment following school, or focusing on more functional academics, our programs are designed to integrate student academic learning with vital life skills.
Empowering Students for Real-World Challenges
Gersh Academy is dedicated to fostering an environment where our students can experiment, fail, and learn in safe and supportive settings. They are building the capacity to handle unforeseen challenges and adapt to changing circumstances, so that they leave equipped to face the future with optimism and readiness.
If you believe in a proactive and collaborative approach to education, and are looking for a school that can provide a supportive environment for your child to thrive, consider Gersh Academy. Contact us to learn more about how we can help your child.