Welcome to theHome of the Panthers

Daily Living Skills

Students increase their independence by practicing daily living skills in and outside the classroom (when appropriate).

• Functional Math: Students practice money management, shopping, cooking and measuring, and time management.
• Functional Literacy: Students fill out job applications. They also practice reading street signs, menus, food labels, instructions, schedules, and calendars.
• Community Exploration and Safety: Students learn about transportation options, recreational activities, shopping, and eating. They also practice crosswalk, street, and parking lot safety. 
• Communication: Students practice socializing with peers, people in the community, doctors, and employers. They also learn about self-advocacy, decision making, and problem solving.
• Functional based curriculum programs used at ATPS include:
  • Daily Living: Unique Learning System (n2y)
  • Cooking: Look N Cook
  • Current Events: CNN 10, NBC Nightly News: Kids Edition

Vocational Training

Students experience job training opportunities in and out of the classroom.

• Work Based Learning (WBL): ATPS students experience a variety of entry level job skills through training at local businesses while working alongside paid employees.  ATPS students currently job train at OPC Senior Center, Emagine Theater, ACE Hardware, Oakland University, Kensington Church, Blessings In A Backpack, and Meijer.
• In-house Vocational Training: Students gain job skills in the school setting working on job tasks provided by local business partners.
• PAES (Practical Assessment Exploration System) Lab: This lab offers over 300 entry-level job tasks students can experience. Students discover not only what they like to do, but what they are good at doing.

Community Base Instruction (CBI)

Students explore the local community

• Recreation: Free or low-cost opportunities include mall walking, bowling, and working out at Retro Fitness. Students also learn how to utilize local parks, community centers, and libraries.
• Shopping: Students are encouraged to purchase personal items, like deodorant, shampoo, and food. Students also shop for their own lunch ingredients, which they prepare at ATPS. Students practice cost and brand comparison.
• Restaurants: Students learn to understand menu options, practice ordering, paying, and calculating tax/tip. Students also practice social skills in a real restaurant setting. 
• Socialization: Students practice interacting with peers, establishment employees, and others while in the community.
• Volunteering: Students volunteer with Blessings-in-a-Backpack, American House, and Avondale Youth Assistance.