TEC Academy – Phoenix

TPA collaborative problem-solving
TEC licensed clinician and student

About TEC Academy - Phoenix

DESE Approved Public Day School, Grades 6-12

At TEC Academy - Phoenix (TAP) our goal is to prepare students for post-secondary education or training, equipping them with the tools they need to thrive academically, socially, and personally. Students at TAP have typically struggled with the academic, social, and behavioral expectations of a typical high school. With a small, safe, structured environment, and a low student-to-staff ratio, we ensure that each student receives the individualized attention and support they deserve.

TAP focuses on positive behavioral supports, collaborative problem-solving, and goal setting. Our integrated team of skilled teachers, therapists, and adjustment counselors work together to help students develop effective decision-making skills, self-regulation, and interpersonal skills, setting them on the path to success in school, college, and beyond.

TAP students have experienced an array of challenges, which may include:

Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
Trauma History
Oppositional Defiance Disorder

At TAP we understand these struggles, and our experienced staff is here to provide a supportive environment that addresses these obstacles with empathy and understanding; while keeping students progressing toward graduation.

Academic Program

TAP’s small class sizes and individualized plans for each student go beyond the goals in the IEP. Our “whole student” approach provides the necessary educational, emotional, social connectedness, and therapeutic learning environment for students to be successful.

Aligned with Massachusetts curriculum frameworks, our academic program focuses on supporting students to meet all requirements to obtain a diploma from their sending district, including passing the MCAS exam. Our highly-skilled educators work alongside licensed clinicians to support students in achieving both academic and personal goals.

TAP students also have access to facilitated online courses through TEC Online Learning.

In addition to TAP’s standard program, TAP offers shorter-term placements for students in need of an extended evaluation or an Interim Alternative Educational Setting (IAES).

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Clinical Support

Our licensed clinicians are fully integrated into the school's daily operations, working closely with teachers and support personnel to create a caring, trauma-informed environment.

Clinicians provide individual counseling sessions, each week, to help students tackle academic and personal challenges, empowering them to reach their goals. Counseling sessions often employ the principles of cognitive behavioral therapy to help students become aware of inaccurate or negative thinking so they can view challenging situations more clearly and effectively.

Counselors also lead small group counseling sessions focused on identified needs, such as distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and emotional regulation. They help students develop social pragmatic skills through social skills groups, social modeling, and coaching in the moment.

Through partnerships with families and community providers, TAP’s licensed social workers ensure that our students have the comprehensive support they need to be successful across all settings.

Program Highlights

A small, supportive, therapeutic setting in a caring community

Academic curriculum and instruction aligned to the MA Curriculum Frameworks

Skilled MA DESE licensed educators and clinicians

Vocational activities, including culinary arts and computer repair

On-going collaboration between school, parents/caregivers, and community providers

Field trips, team-building activities, and volunteer service within the community

College and career counseling, including interest assessments, personal goal development, and internship opportunities

What’s Unique About
TEC Academy - Phoenix?

College and Career Exploration

TAP students complete interest surveys, research careers, engage in online elective courses in an area of career interest, prepare resumes, apply to jobs, learn interview skills, practice soft skills and identify technical skills and areas for growth.

A Focus on Physical and Mental Health

At TAP, we aim to make sure our graduates are not only academically prepared for post-secondary endeavors, but they also and possess the resilience and skills to navigate life's challenges with confidence.

Students focus on their physical and mental health through ongoing individual and group counseling, physical education and fitness activities on campus and at LA Fitness, as well as 1:1 and group opportunities focused on strategies for healthy living.

Community Partnerships

From problem-solving to communication, students hone essential abilities through hands-on experiences in the community. Through TAP’s partnership with the Norwood Senior Center, students have the opportunity to participate in our culinary program. By engaging in real-life work experiences, alongside peers, educators, and community members, students discover their own potential, building confidence, self-esteem, and empathy for others.

TPA student playing basketball
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Contact
TEC Academy - Phoenix

Lisa-Freedman_x200

Lisa Freedman

Program Director

What Our Families Say About
TEC Academy - Phoenix

“[My son] comes home in a better mood since enrolling at TEC Phoenix Academy. There is also no problem getting him up for school anymore in the morning. He looks forward to is, which is something we have never seen before!”

Parent of TEC Phoenix School Student

“TEC Phoenix Academy has given our son a tremendous amount of confidence. The staff...understands [his] needs and works hard to help him with his anxiety. He has made great progress over the past 2 years!”

Parent of TEC Phoenix School Student

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