Mountainside High School

Mountainside High School is an alternative secondary program for students with emotional, behavioral and learning challenges. Students benefit from the small class size, a strengths-based approach and extra supports needed for success.

Academic Program Features:

• Full-day academics with a focus on academic excellence for every student
• Creative programming through digital technology to build 21st century skills
• Work-based learning opportunities foster the development of life and job-readiness skills
• Literacy remediation, including Read 180
• Homework support using video conferencing
• Opportunity to enroll in Rockland BOCES Career and Technical Education Center (CTEC) programs, where students may earn industry certifications along with their high school diplomas 
•  Several pathways to graduation, including Advanced Regents and Regents, Career Development and Occupational Studies (CDOS) Credential, and a self-contained classroom for those obtaining a Skills and Achievement Commencement Credential (SACC)

Social and Emotional Supports:

• An integrated team of clinicians and teachers support the needs of all students
• Brain-based instructional approaches are implemented to decrease stress and enhance learning
• Positive Behavior Intervention and Support (PBIS) provides the foundation for a successful school culture
• Through collaborative problem solving, students are given options to increase their access to instruction by utilizing separate learning spaces, “taking five” or virtual learning with iPads
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills help students improve their emotional self-regulation and increase mindfulness
• Students receive daily feedback regarding academic, social and behavioral progress and are acknowledged for their accomplishments
• Weekly “Circle Ups” celebrate student strengths and positive contributions to the school community
• Clinicians coordinate wraparound services for families, make connections with community service partners, collaborate with the Rockland BOCES Family Resource Center, Adult and Continuing Education, ACCES-VR and local mental health associations

Student Profile:

Students with academic, social and/or emotional needs who are at risk for dropping out or have a history of involvement in multiple systems of care and who demonstrate the capacity to be successful.

Collaborations:

Mental Health Association of Westchester, Mental Health Association of Rockland and the Center for Safe & Healthy Youth. Psychiatric consultations available.