Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES

Union Springs' Website

The 12:1:1 program is designed for students working toward a Regents, Local diploma, or a Career Development and Occupational Studies (CDOS) credential who have similar educational needs and benefit from a small, structured learning environment. This program provides individualized instruction while maintaining high academic expectations aligned with New York State learning standards.

Each classroom includes up to 12 students, one certified special education teacher, and one teaching assistant, allowing for targeted academic support, differentiated instruction, and consistent behavioral and social-emotional supports.

All 12:1:1 classrooms are located within one of our component school districts, providing students with meaningful access to their school community. Based on individual strengths, abilities, and needs, students receive instruction in core content areas either within the special class setting or, when appropriate, alongside general education peers in the component district. This flexible model supports inclusion, academic growth, and preparation for post-secondary goals.

The program emphasizes:

• Access to Regents-aligned curriculum
• Development of academic, executive functioning, and self-advocacy skills
• Social-emotional learning and positive behavior supports

Our goal is to support students in building the skills, confidence, and independence needed for success in school and beyond.

The 8:1:1 district-based program is designed for students working toward a Regents or Local diploma and/or a Career Development and Occupational Studies (CDOS) credential who have similar educational needs and benefit from a small, highly supportive learning environment.

All classrooms are located within one of our component school districts, allowing students to remain connected to their school community while receiving individualized support. Each classroom includes up to eight students, one certified special education teacher, and one teaching assistant, providing a structured setting that promotes academic success, positive behavior, and social-emotional growth.

The curriculum is designed to support the diverse academic, social, and behavioral needs of each student while fostering meaningful growth and development. Instruction is aligned with New York State learning standards and credential requirements, with differentiated instruction to meet individual learning styles and abilities.

A key focus of the program is social-emotional learning (SEL). Students receive direct instruction and ongoing support to develop skills such as emotional regulation, self-awareness, coping strategies, problem-solving, and positive peer relationships. These skills are integrated throughout the school day and reinforced across academic, social, and behavioral contexts.

Program highlights include:

• Explicit focus on social-emotional learning and behavioral skill development
• Development of self-advocacy, executive functioning, and independence
• Collaboration with families, component districts, and support services

The goal of this program is to empower students with the academic skills, social-emotional competencies, and confidence needed to succeed in school, the workplace, and the broader community.