Options Program

Here, Everyone Belongs

The Br. Thomas R. Leto Options Program is designed with the belief that all young men, including those with mild to moderate disabilities, should have the “option” of a Hendricken education. Its purpose is to meet the needs of a unique set of learners in an effort to embrace the spirit of the Hendricken man: heart, mind, body, and soul. The focus of the program is to provide academic, social, and spiritual growth for each student in order for them to be successful and independent adults in the future.

Options Program Faculty

Vanessa Cardillo
Director of Academic Support Services
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Jessica Medeiros
Options Program Teacher
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Curriculum

The Options Program curriculum is centered on developing the students’ life skills in English and Mathematics. Our faculty conducts these core classes in the Options classrooms where they use a variety of hands-on activities, cooperative learning, and interactive technologies to meet each student’s needs.

The Options Program places a strong emphasis on vocational and transitional exploration and includes a junior and senior internship at a job site in an area of future career interest. Our goal is to help students become independent and productive members of our community.

Inclusion

Students further develop their social skills by attending some general education classes, including Theology, Modern Language, Science, and Social Studies, as well as their electives and Physical Education courses. Learning needs in these classes are met through modified assignments and assessments, as well as through the assistance of the Peer Mentors.

Peer Mentors

Peer Mentors are an integral part of the Options Program. Students give up their study period in order to attend one of the general education classes with an Options Program student. The Peer Mentors assist with note-taking, read tests and quizzes, support, and encourage their Options Program student match. Mentors also foster meaningful relationships with the Options students which results in long-lasting friendships both in class, as well as at games, extracurricular activities, and social events.