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Regional Programs

PGCPS provides specially designed instruction for students with significant cognitive disabilities who require specialized instruction based on alternate academic achievement standards. Within PGCPS, students with significant cognitive disabilities are educated in the Least Restrictive Environment, which for most students is in a special education program  in a comprehensive school or regional center for grades K - 12.


Students participate in all core academic subjects (language arts, math, social studies, and science). Students participate in functional life skills that are embedded during their school day.Students participate in Community Based Instruction both in their school building and in the community based on their specific needs.  Teachers utilize an alternate curriculum framework aligned with essential elements that are linked to the Maryland College and Career-Ready Standards for the student's grade.  The goal of the program is to provide intensive educational programming to enable students to acquire appropriate social and communicative skills and prepare them for post-secondary opportunities. Comprehensive behavior management is utilized that includes proactive teaching and rehearsal of social skills, as well as the use of structured and consistent reinforcement systems. Related services are provided through a transdisciplinary model that provides the opportunity for students to receive services and supports throughout the day across disciplines and not just in a separate room or scheduled time.
Students ages, 18-21, participate in the Transition to Independence, Employment, and Success (TIES) curriculum with embedded job training outside of their school building.