Watson Institute - Sharpsburg, PA

LEAP Preschool At the Watson Institute’s special education school in Sharpsburg we offer the LEAP (Learning Experiences: An Alternative Program for Preschoolers and Parents) Preschool program, an inclusive program for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their typically developing peers. Through an inclusive approach, the focus for this early childhood special education school environment is centered on enhancing the skills of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder through interaction and play with typically developing children. LEAP Preschool classrooms typically consists of 4 students with Autism Spectrum Disorder and 8 typically developing children. WISCA (Watson Institute Social Center for Academic Achievement) Watson’s Sharpsburg location is also home to a special education school program designed to help students with high-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder complete school utilizing an online curriculum that is adapted to meet the needs of each student’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP). Students at WISCA may choose their elective classes so they are suited to the student’s unique interests. Special education staff in this program also provide students with therapeutic instruction in language and social skills, organizational and life skills and community based instruction to help them prepare for a smooth transition into adulthood after graduating from the program.