Lynwood Unified Program Finds Success in Teaching Children with Autism

Several educators from the Washington Elementary School in Lynwood have been working for months on the “Competent Learner Model,” (CLM) a pilot program that can better address the educational needs of children with autism. The plan creates lessons for the students that can develop important academic and life skills.

On Wednesday, March 20, the organizers of the program showcased their progress to members of the Lynwood Unified School District (LUSD) with testimonies from parents, videos and other forms documentation.

School administrators at Washington Elementary are among the supporters of the program. Claiming to have witnessed first hand the positive effects of the CLM model.

“I remember walking out in the morning and seeing the CLM staff struggling with the students’ challenging behaviors,” said Dr. Sergei Orloff, principal at Washington Elementary. “Now it’s amazing to watch these same students smoothly transition from one activity to another in a calm manner throughout the school day.”

One story of success was that of 9-year old Michelle, a student at Washington Elementary who was prone to self-injury and was socially withdrawn. Since joining the program in July 2012, Michelle has made tremendous progress.

“Michelle can verbally communicate, is no longer injuring herself, and is participating in learning activities and even playing near other children on the playground,” reported an official LUSD press release.

Another story shared was that of James, a five-year-old student, who suffered from disruptive behaviors and limited verbal skills. After enrolling in the pilot program, James has improved his social skills, actively participates in school and has learned the alphabet.

“I’m so happy because every day he will do something to amaze you,” said his parents in a video testimony that was screened during the presentation.

Members LUSD board also expressed their happiness for the program and its first results.

"I'm so proud of our talented and hard-working teachers who are so dedicated to this program and to our students," said Maria G. Lopez, the president of LUSD Board of Education, in a statement.

According to an LUSD statement, the following teachers led the CLM teams at Washington Elementary: Esmerelda Perez-Rodas, Lidia Hernandez and Ingrid Cherrington.

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