Horizons Program
I.S. 126 is proud to continue the Horizons program, which started at P.S. 171. Over the next 3 years, we will grow this program to include 6th, 7th, and 8th graders joining our school community. Our program is designed to provide an inclusive, supportive, and differentiated learning environment where students can access meaningful educational experiences while actively participating in the rich academic and social opportunities our school offers.
As part of our structured Horizons curriculum, we use Best Buddies — a program that promotes friendship, inclusion, and acceptance by bringing together students from the ICT/General Education setting and the Horizons setting for one period each week to participate in a variety of Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) activities.
This wonderful program builds meaningful relationships, fosters understanding and belonging, and creates connections both inside and outside of the classroom.
Class Structure
Each class has eight autistic students, taught by one special education teacher and one classroom paraprofessional. With the proper support, students have opportunities for inclusion in larger classrooms, learning alongside peers with and without IEPs.
Curriculum & Instruction
Classes follow the New York Learning Standards and use the same curriculum as all NYC Public Schools. Autism Horizons teachers have specialized training in proactive and positive strategies and interventions to support the academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs of students with autism. The Rethink Ed Platform provides evidence-based instructional materials grounded in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to support academic and social-emotional development.
Social-Emotional Supports
The Horizons Social Curriculum is a group speech session led by the speech therapist and supported by the classroom teacher and paraprofessional. It centers on helping students develop authentic social communication skills, navigate social challenges, and build self-advocacy and efficacy skills.
Horizons Staff
Michelle Netzler
MNetzler@schools.nyc.govKaren
TBD
T. Bartolone
English Language Arts
S. Gregoriano
Mathematics
J. Rosenking
Social Studies
N. Perullo
Science
CONTACT INFORMATION
I.S. 126 Albert Shanker School
31-51 21st Street, Queens, NY 11106
Phone: (718) 274-8316
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