The life skills classes serve students whose high needs require more specialized instruction in academic and functional skills that will help them be successful in daily living. Each student has a program individually tailored to his/her individual needs, as determined by the multi-disciplinary team which includes parents and school staff.

Lake Spokane Elementary
Contact Kathy Jones
[email protected]
509-340-4081

At the elementary and middle school level, a student's program typically includes individualized instruction in basic reading, math, writing, motor and communication skills.

Lakeside Middle School
Contact Matt Sturm
[email protected]
509-340-4124

In addition, many students spend part of their day in general education classes to participate in modified grade level activities, as well as to work on social and communication skills that will foster friendships with typically developing peers.

Lakeside High School
Contact Erin Damrel
[email protected]
509-340-4240

14-18 years of age:
The goal of the high school life skills program is to help student gain their independence. The four areas of focus are: life skills, academics, general education classes, and community based instruction. Freshman through senior years are spent taking general education classes that will help meet student needs. Academic instruction in reading, writing, and math continues to be taught using specially designed instruction in the resource room. Adaptive behavior, social skills, job skills, functional academic and life skills will be identified and directly taught as needs require. Transition and independence are taught in the classroom as well as in the community. The community based instruction model will focus on teaching students about agencies and services offered to help individuals with disabilities in areas including housing, finances, and work.

18-21 years of age:
The focus of this program becomes students who may choose to stay in school until they reach the age of 21 or transition from high school to adult life. Students' interests will be matched with their skills to help place them in an appropriate work placement. We work closely with different agencies and employers to train students to become as independent as possible. Students will receive work based learning credit through the counseling office. Students are required to meet work goals, fill out time sheets, and complete all other requirements to receive work based learning credit. Helping students link with agencies and services that will continue into adult life also becomes a focus.