History

Mission

Board of Trustees

Staff

Affiliations

About Us

The Learning Center is a private, community-based special education school serving students with intellectual disabilities, mental health issues, autism, developmental disabilities, and emotional and behavioral challenges. Our unique curriculum spans a variety of subjects, including math, reading, language arts, budgeting, social sciences, personal growth and development, computer, vocational, and employment skills. Students regularly interact with neighborhood resources such as local banks, stores and restaurants to hone their social and interpersonal skills. Through our approach, students have the opportunity to demonstrate newly acquired abilities and learn to manage behaviors, skills that will serve them currently and after they graduate.

School Program (234 days)
The program provides services to children and young adults ages 6 to 22. Specialized lessons and instruction are available to students and the Center’s curriculum is aligned with the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks. Our highly-qualified team of professionals includes Certified Special Education Teachers, Occupational Therapists, Speech and Language Pathologists, Expressive Therapists, Behavior Clinicians, Employment Training Specialists, and Counselors. A full complement of nursing personnel is also on staff.

Residential Program (365 days – 24/7)
The residential program, with seven community-based homes in the neighborhoods of Waltham, Watertown and Belmont, provides students with a safe, therapeutic environment. In-house communication training and participation in leisure and recreational group activities in the residences and the local community are important features of the program. Clinical and Behavioral Specialists are present in the residences to provide training and support.