New York State School for the Blind
Batavia, New York
one review
Why did you choose this fieldwork?
This placement was close to my home so I didn't need housing, and it has pediatric students in a "school based" setting while also allowing additional treatment - such as dorm/medical therapies.
Please indicate type of setting:
School, Developmental Disabilities
Please describe your living and commuting situation. (Was accomodation offered? Public transportation or parking offered? Please include price paid, location and conditions.)
No housing is available, however parking is free.
Describe types of conditions or diagnoses, as well as age ranges exposed to during this fieldwork.
Students are all school aged (5-21). Students all have some degree of visual impairment or blindness as well as a physical or developmental disability. The additional disabilities include CP, sturge weber, autism, ADHD, Tourette Syndrome, seizure disorders, etc.
What types of assessments and interventions were used?
Assessments occur when students are being evaluated for placement at the school and often include HELP, Oregon, and observations. Depending on the time of year, the amount of assessments necessary will vary.
Interventions are mainly based in functional activities, yet can also focus on sensory integration and NDT depending on the student and his or her needs.
What are your thoughts on the site's environment for the employees and students? (Please consider: organization, collaboration, mentoring, learning opportunities)
The organization is clearly based on helping students. Some staff can be placed in situations where they are needed to do things that are not what they deem to be ideal (such as changing lunch breaks or having meetings after school) but the focus is always on the students and what will make the learning process the most effective. Staff is never asked to do anything that is unethical or unacceptable.
Please comment on personality traits and/or preparation that would facilitate success at this site.
Students need to focus on being a self-starter and willing to step in to do anything necessary. At times I found myself going into classrooms or dorms to help out in any way necessary - teachers and CCA (child care aides) really appreciated the extra effort. Be willing to stand up for yourself and ask if you want to do something or see another therapy session/classroom session/field trip. You will get to experience a lot if you make an effort to get the most out of the site.
How many stars would you give your experience, from one to five?
5
Review submitted September 24, 2010