Community

Buckeye North Elementary Adds New Autism Unit

DILLONVALE -- Buckeye Local students with autism have a learning space for themselves with the formation of a new unit at Buckeye North Elementary.

A classroom and sensory room have been created in the Brilliant building where eight pupils will obtain their education while remaining within the district. Julie Packer, district director of preschool, special education and student services, said it was a matter of fulfilling a growing need.

"We are opening an autism unit, and because of a special education law we can only hold eight kids and it's already full. There is a high need for it right now," Packer said. "It was my first big project (since taking the job last year). There aren't enough facilities in our area to service the kids we have."

The facility is staffed with teacher Stephanie Sliva and three aides. The sensory room offers swings, sensory tubs, a relaxation corner, a music and movement corner and tactile sensory items to desensitize affected students. She added that the items can be swapped out at any time for more individualized care and the program is being funded through the district. An open house was recently held to showcase the site, and Packer hopes to enhance the program at the high school and two other elementary schools.

"Our goal is to have enough units available to de-escalate and reinvigorate those students. I'm very excited about it," Packer said. "I'm looking forward to expanding to the junior-senior high school and adding more units in the future. It will require more trained staff to make it the best possible for the kids."