Academic Program Overview

Mercer High School (MHS) staff work closely with local districts to ensure the completion of graduation requirements.  MHS is a state-approved testing site and all students participate in either the New Jersey High School Proficiency Assessment (HSPA) or the Alternative Proficiency Assessment (APA), as well as the EOC Biology and EOC Algebra assessments.  Students are instructed in Math, Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, and World Languages.

Students are instructed according to the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards (CCCS).  In order to enhance progress in the general curriculum, students receive support from a reading specialist as well as direct instruction from special education staff who are highly qualified in the academic subjects they teach.

A variety of instructional methodologies support the different learning styles of students enrolled in the school.  Individual and small group instruction is the hallmarks of the program.  Students also benefit from a wide range of computer technology both to increase access and to provide error-free learning and consistent practice of skills.

Autism Program

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the most commonly used, evidenced-based approach for teaching students with autism.  Students with autism are taught through systematic strategies and consistently are reinforced for displaying desired behaviors.  A vital part of this program is the regular collection of data to measure the progression of skill development and to equip staff with information they need to make judgments regarding program changes and modifications.

Social Skills groups are conducted in all autistic classes and skills learned are applied during community-based instruction.  Instruction in the community provides a real world opportunity to assist in the generalization of skills developed in the classroom and school environment.

Parents are offered the opportunity to participate in the Home Component in which a service provider works to equip parents with successful strategies for managing behavior in the home and community settings.

Behavioral Disabilities Program

The Behavioral Disabilities program provides support for academic progress while enabling students to obtain strategies to improve social and emotional skills.  Students are able to access a wide variety of services including participation in individual and small group counseling, social decision-making and anger management groups.  Crisis intervention team members and behavioral assistants provide support and assistance to staff and students.

School-wide behavior support systems ensure that Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) are implemented through all school and community settings.  Every effort is made to keep students in school and, therefore, Supervised Instruction is offered as an alternative to suspension.

Cognitive Severe Program

The Cognitive Severe Program provides intense therapy and classroom support for students with the most severe medical, cognitive, and physical needs.  A collaborative approach is used, with classroom staff and therapists working together to provide a stimulating and supportive environment for those students with the serious developmental delays.  The goal is to keep the students actively engaged throughout the school day using a wide array of sensory experiences and integrated techniques and strategies.