A new local partnership is helping to support students diagnosed with autism in Chatham-Kent.
Beginning in September, the Children’s Treatment Centre of Chatham-Kent will partner with the St. Clair Catholic District School Board for the Autism Transitional Classroom (ATC) at St. Angela Merici Catholic School.
During the 2026-27 school year, the classroom will provide short-term placements for Chatham-Kent students aged 4 to 12 diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), with a focus on implementing strategies that support a successful transition to their home school.
“Students entering the Autism Transitional Classroom need specialized programming built into every part of their instructional day to help them learn and maintain new skills,” said Jen Morrow, superintendent of Student Achievement for the school board, in a news release. “This partnership will help ensure they receive the support they need through our shared commitment of helping students thrive.”
The program team consists of a Special Education Principal, a Program Resource Consultant, a Program Resource Teacher, and two Education Assistants, with consultation provided by a Registered Behaviour Analyst from the school board.
Up to six students will be learning in the classroom at one time, receiving Speech and Language, Physiotherapy, and Occupational Therapy from practitioners at the Children’s Treatment Centre.
