Coming in Fall 2025.
In the fall of 2025, Chelsea School will be launching the pilot of an exciting new program – The Oaks. This program is specifically designed to meet the needs of high-functioning, low-support students on the autism spectrum.
For over 48 years, Chelsea School has served students with language-based learning disabilities in a college preparatory environment focused on literacy. Our history of changing the trajectory for students with learning disabilities speaks for itself. With a focused approach to literacy remediation and intervention, small classes, innovative individualized instructional methods, and a culture of empathy, kindness, and inclusivity, Chelsea School has helped students to realize their dreams of college, meaningful employment, and bright futures.
With a history of service to students who thrive in a small school environment, The Oaks at Chelsea School will provide the same approach to educating students with autism spectrum disorders.
Mission and Vision
Mission Statement
The Oaks at Chelsea School provides a nurturing and inclusive educational environment for students on the Autism Spectrum who also struggle with literacy-based needs. We are committed to empowering each student by fostering their unique strengths, promoting social-emotional development, and enhancing literacy skills through individualized instruction and tailored support. By collaborating with families and the community, we aim to inspire a love for learning, build confidence, and prepare our students for meaningful and independent futures.
Vision Statement
To be a leading educational program where every student is valued, understood, and inspired to reach their full potential. We embrace diversity, foster resilience, and cultivate a lifelong love for learning. We do so through innovative teaching practices where all students have equitable access to opportunity.
Program Overview
A nurturing and inclusive educational environment for students on the Autism Spectrum with literacy-based needs empowers students by fostering unique strengths, promoting social-emotional development, and enhancing literacy skills.
- Small class sizes (5-6 students per cohort)
- Individual Education Plans guide tailored learning
- Collaboration with families and community for a holistic educational experience
- Diploma-Track Program
- Follows Maryland state graduation requirements and the requirements of funding counties
- Full-day, 10-month program
- Built-in breaks throughout the day; 8 academic periods
Some of our research-based interventions include:
- Orton-Gillingham structured reading program
- Social skills and pragmatic speech groups focusing on:
- social communication
- adapting to social norms
- turn-taking in conversations
- reading social cues
Support Levels
- Students require level one supports only (no use of holds or restraints)
- Counseling services are a mandatory part of the program
- Related-services are integrated into interventions
- Speech Language Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Counseling
Unique Program Features
- Peer networking group (round table) for social integration
- After-school enrichment opportunities and clubs
- Environmental considerations for sensory needs
- Adaptive living and life skills training
- Accommodations for dietary restrictions
- Sensory diet accommodations
- Transition services
- Participation in Chelsea School athletics program
Curriculum and Classes
Curriculum
Chelsea School and The Oaks both follow the Common Core State Curriculum as required by the Maryland State Department of Education. For core classes (English, Math, Science, and Social Studies), the Prince George’s County Public Schools curricula are used. Access to the curriculum is provided through accommodations and modifications, supplementary aids and services, multi-sensory and multi-modal instructional practices, individualized instruction, and hands-on learning.
Classes
Middle School students take the following core classes: English Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies plus Reading Tutorial and Social Skills. Specials may vary from year to year, but always include Physical Education, Health, and Art, as well as other offerings such as Careers, Culinary Arts, Ceramics, and Spanish.
High School students are scheduled to take classes in alignment with their graduation requirements. This includes their core classes:
- English
- Math (Algebra, Geometry, Algebra II, Probability & Statistics, or Precalculus, Financial Literacy)
- Social Studies (US History, Government, World History I and II)
- Science (Biology, Physical Science, Chemistry, Environmental Science)
- Reading Tutorial
- Physical Education and Health
- Foreign Language (Spanish)
- Fine Art (Painting and Drawing, Ceramics, Digital Photography)
- Other Electives or Requirements
Admission Process
If you believe that The Oaks might be the right fit for your child, we encourage you to begin the admissions process. Here’s how:
- Submit an admissions application. You can find the application form below. This application gives us important background information about your child.
- After we’ve received your application, we’ll schedule a family interview.
- Following the interview, we typically invite the student for a shadow visit. This allows them to experience a day in the life at The Oaks and see if it feels like a comfortable and supportive environment.
- Finally, our admissions team will review all the information gathered – the application, interview, shadow visit, and any supporting documentation – to make an informed decision about acceptance.
As part of the admissions components for consideration, we require:
- A documented diagnosis of ASD (level 1) from a qualified professional.
- Evidence of literacy deficits, as assessed by standardized testing or evaluations.
- A current IEP (Individualized Education Plan), if available.
- A demonstration of social and emotional readiness to participate in a structured classroom environment.
- A commitment from parents or guardians to collaborate with the school in supporting their child’s education.
- An interview or assessment with the student and family to assess fit for the school environment and to understand the student’s strengths, challenges, and interests.
Application for Admissions
