When the doors of OMOPHEP officially opened in September of 2014, the Board of Directors requested a four-year pilot program with a group of five students with Down Syndrome and autism. This was done to ensure documented success with learners of all ages and abilities. This pilot program concluded in September 2018 with a vote of confidence from the Board in all aspects including rapid and positive student progress and excellent business practices.  

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Our Mother of Perpetual Help offers traditional and functional academics to learners with Down Syndrome, autism and similar disabilities. Experienced and nurturing educators tailor curriculum to meet the individual needs of each student. This unique approach, combined with a very low teacher-to-student ratio, sets Our Mother of Perpetual Help apart from other schools and programs that serve similar populations.  

 

Teachers, parents, therapists and administrators all work together to ensure every student’s success. The program serves students ages 4 - 23, with no maximum age. The only requirement is that a child not be medically fragile nor have issues with violent behavior. It’s worth noting that several students, thought to be non-verbal and non-communicative, have been taught to use LAMP (Language Acquisition through Motor Planning) devices with a 100% success rate.  

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The main goal for younger students is to provide them with a solid educational foundation. For older learners, the focus is on preparing them for independence by assisting in vocational training and placement. Vocational preparation is critical for the special needs population who deserve a healthy, happy, and productive life after their school years have ended.