The basis of this project was developed to prepare our students to function in society as independently as possible. At Felician, we agree with the importance of this goal. With this in mind, our program is specifically designed for developmentally challenged (Cognitively Impaired, mild or moderate; Multiply Disabled; Behaviorally Disabled; Autism). Our program is divided into two groups:

• MCI/MD– 3 to 21 years
• BD/AUT – 3 to 15 years (21 if student is appropriate for Job Training Program)

Too often many of these students reach chronological adulthood with an impoverished sense of their own dignity, potential and independence. They are ill-equipped for adapting to our work-oriented society. Felician, therefore, has adopted the Elsmere Project's unique curriculum and developed a program which addresses this problem at every age level. From the youngest to the oldest, our program is geared toward developing in our students the skills, attitudes and behaviors necessary for obtaining and maintaining employment.

Beginning at the primary level and continuing through to the job-training level, the curriculum focuses on six essential skill areas:

Functional Academics Socialization Independent Living Skills

Personal/Family Life Development Pre-Vocational Skills Development Vocational/Job Training

Through these six areas, our students are prepared to function in the community; to travel, shop, work, enjoy leisure time, and relate to others. Upon entrance into our program, regardless of the level, each student's class schedule, activities, tasks and assignments are carefully planned to reflect the preparation needed to become viable, working citizens in the community.