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Questions to Ask When Touring an Affective Needs (AN) Program

  • Writer: Krystal Taylor
    Krystal Taylor
  • Mar 19
  • 2 min read

When touring an Affective Needs (AN) program, it's important to ask the right questions to ensure the program is a good fit for the student’s needs. Here are some key areas to focus on:

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Program Structure & Philosophy

  1. What is the program’s overall philosophy for supporting students with affective needs?

  2. How are social-emotional learning (SEL) and behavioral supports integrated into the school day?

  3. What are the class sizes and student-to-staff ratios?

  4. What qualifications and training do the staff members have in working with students with affective needs?


Behavior & Emotional Support

  1. How does the program support students in managing emotional regulation and coping skills?

  2. What behavior intervention strategies are used (e.g., PBIS, restorative practices, token systems)?

  3. How are Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) implemented and tracked?

  4. How do you handle behavioral incidents, including discipline and crisis situations?

  5. What strategies are in place to help students transition back into general education settings if appropriate?


Academic & Instructional Approach

  1. How is academic instruction adapted for students in the AN program? How do we ensure my child's academic success?

  2. Are students integrated into general education classes at any point? If so, how is that determined?

  3. What supports are in place for students who struggle with executive functioning, attention, or processing challenges?


Therapeutic & Mental Health Services

  1. What types of mental health services are available (e.g., counseling, social work, school psychologist support)?

  2. How often do students receive direct therapy or counseling support?

  3. Is there collaboration with outside providers (e.g., therapists, psychiatrists, community mental health agencies)?


Family & Communication

  1. How does the program communicate with families about progress and challenges? What if the student is not doing well?

  2. Are parents involved in goal-setting, behavior planning, or intervention strategies?

  3. What kind of training or support is offered for parents and caregivers?


Logistics & Transitions

  1. What does a typical school day look like for a student in the program?

  2. How does the program handle transitions between activities, classes, and grade levels?

  3. What happens if a student is not making progress in the program?


Exit & Reintegration Criteria

  1. How is student progress measured?

  2. What criteria determine when a student is ready to transition out of the AN program?

  3. How do you support students who are reintegrating into general education settings?


These questions will help you get a well-rounded understanding of how the program operates and whether it aligns with the student’s needs. 


Need Support? I’m Here to Help!

Choosing the right program for your child can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. If you need guidance in advocating for your child, reviewing programs, or understanding your rights, I offer consultations to support families in finding the best educational fit.


📩 Contact me today to schedule a consult and get the support your child deserves!


 
 
 

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