Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) programs

Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) programs provide services for children between the ages of 3 and21. Students on the Autism Spectrum can experience challenges even in the best educational environments.If the school culture has certain positive qualities,the scene is set for greater success. Merrimack Special Education Collaborative programs are designed to meet the needs of students diagnosed with Aspergers,Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) or who are experiencing sensory issues along the Autism Spectrum.

The core values of MSEC are readily apparent in the classroom setting. Classrooms are designed to provide comfort and security by limiting stimuli that may overwhelm students. The educational environment provides activities and materials that are interesting and motivating.Perhaps most importantly, curriculum is based on each student’s individual characteristics – not simply a theory. Programs serve the whole child by providing a rich, meaningful learning experience through structured activities at their individual level of readiness

It is MSEC’s goal to provide each student with frequent and personally meaningful reinforcement, critical to sustaining motivation. MSEC PDD assessment guides individual student goals and objectives, which address all developmental domains.

The thematic-based curriculum utilizes an eclectic teaching approach, based on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis techniques, discrete trial training,task analysis, floor time and relationship developmentintervention, theory of mind, positive behavioral support, and total communication techniques.

The integrated therapy approach provides

peech/language pathologists

Occupational therapists

Physical therapists

Music therapists

Board Certified Behavior Analysts

The William H. Flaherty Education Center, located at40 Brick Kiln Road, Chelmsford, Massachusetts provides services for children Pre-K through Grade 4.Classrooms within the Education Center are designed for elementary aged children diagnosed with autism or developmental delays requiring a 12 month program with intensive, specialized services. The classrooms are large, bright spaces and the bathrooms are equipped with child-size fixtures. There are two gross motor rooms. One equipped with suspended equipment an done with ample area for obstacle courses and games.

MSEC also has classrooms for Pervasive Development Disorder and autism spectrum disorders located in public school buildings, as MSEC is dedicated to providing services to special education students in the least restrictive setting. A range of service delivery techniques are offered to accommodate the needs of our students, with the opportunity, as the student improves, for integration.

Referral Process/Contact

Initial contact from SPED Director followed by referral packet sent to :

PDD Program Manager
William H. Flaherty Education Center
40 Brick Kiln Road
Chelmsford, MA 01824
978-459-1652