The Anderson School 

The Beginnings of The Anderson School

The concept for the Anderson School  — creating a learning environment that meets the academic, behavioral and therapeutic needs of students in need of extra support —was put into action 40 years ago. The idea grew from a few specialized classrooms to The Anderson School of today— a state-of-the-art facility opened in January 2008 that accommodates 130 students, including general education and specially designed instruction for students identified by their school districts as needing academic or behavioral support. The highly structured, small classroom settings led by dedicated professional staff provide a therapeutic environment designed to enhance student pride and self-esteem. The low student to staff ratio also enhances the strong academic structure linked to the Pennsylvania State Standards. The program serves Montgomery County middle and senior high students, grades 6 through 12.

The Anderson School staff is proud of the educational opportunities offered to its students. What creates the difference at Anderson is the Anderson Behavior Support System, which is designed to provide structure and to measure the daily progress of each student. The faculty attends daily meetings to discuss student concerns/clinical needs and to plan effectively for the following school day. Humor, affection and mutual respect are considered the cornerstones to success.

Program features include:

          • Collaboration efforts between students, families & community leaders

• Small class size

• Student council & opportunities for student leadership

• State-of-the-art computer lab

• Web based video streaming/Multimedia technology

• Gymnasium with weight room

• Ceramics/Art studio

• Industrial arts laboratory

• Music appreciation

• Transition services for post-secondary education or employment

• Behavior support system

• Bully prevention program

• Prosocial behavior training

• Anger management strategies

• Integrated approach to meet students’ academic, work/career and personal goals