West Hills Montessori
  



I Am I Can Introduction


OUR MISSION

“Gersh Academy is dedicated to creating a dynamic partnership among home, school and community. Our team understands, accepts and supports children by teaching them the way they learn. Our goal is to develop the whole child and teach them skills for everyday life. We provide a nurturing environment that allows students the opportunity to reach their full potential academically, socially and emotionally.”

Kevin Gersh
President, Gersh Academy

WHAT IS I AM I CAN?

Well into it’s 7th year, the I Am I Can Program was developed for students with Neurobiological Disorders (NBD) which include, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Tourette’s Syndrome, Asperger’s Syndrome, Childhood-Onset Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Anxiety Disorder and Depression. Many of these disorders are called Spectrum Disorders, which means that they may manifest features of two or more of these syndromes, making treatment complicated.

I Am I Can - a holistic school environment.

The program uses a cognitive behavioral approach, allowing students to better understand their neurobiological limitations and how to self-manage and regulate their symptoms. The Elementary Program (K-5) is a 6:1:1 ratio and the Middle School (6-8) and High School Programs are an 8:1:1 ratio. The I Am I Can Program follows the New York State curriculum and standards.

School hours are 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM

The primary objective of the program is to enable the student to be emotionally available to learn.

  • The student receives cognitive-behavioral training to help him/her become aware of individual symptoms and how to self-manage and regulate these symptoms.
  • The parent receives cognitive-behavioral training in order for the behavioral goals to remain consistent in school and at home.

Parents of children in the I Am I Can program must be accessible during the day.