Students served in Extended Content Standards (ECS) classrooms benefit from a highly structured learning environment. Instruction has an emphasis on individual communication and social skills. Students typically require more consistent and repetitive daily routines. Teachers utilize a variety of teaching methods in order for students to demonstrate their knowledge to make progress towards the NC Extended Content Standards and their Individualized Education Program. ECS classrooms are designed to serve students at their secondary base or proximity elementary school. The ECS classrooms provide the opportunity for students to be more engaged with their school community. 

Eligibility Criteria

Instruction based on grade level extensions of the Common Core Standards, a narrower range of content ● Communication and Social Skills instruction integrated throughout the day ● Instruction has academic and functional components ● Classroom includes centers, individual and work group areas ● Instruction is both large and small group ● Vocational training available at the High School level ● Students receive a certificate upon graduation (not a high school diploma).