TESTIMONIALS
William L. Heward, Ed.D., BCBA-D, is professor emeritus on the Walden Center (January 30, 2018) On two separate visits to the Walden Center I observed teachers and children at work and play. Many lessons creatively combined academic goals and social skills. The children received additional opportunities to practice academic and social skills during physical education/sport activities.
Director Esteban Armendariz expertly translates scientific principles of learning into instructional routines that actively engage students and teachers enjoy presenting. The Walden Center’s focus is teaching functional skills that increase each child’s independence in his or her family life at home and that promote inclusion and acceptance in the community.
While most schools identify learning goals for their students, the Walden Center stands out for its commitment to each student’s continued progress. Direct and frequent measurement of each child’s performance on clearly defined, individually chosen learning goals is a key component of the program. New achievements are celebrated and shared with the child’s family. When the data show too little progress, teachers and supervisors discuss the problem and devise changes in instructional methods. A student is never blamed for lack of progress.