Therapeutic Classrooms

A therapeutic classroom is designed to meet the unique needs of students who require additional support due to emotional, behavioral, or mental health challenges. These classrooms aim to create a therapeutic and supportive environment that helps students overcome obstacles and develop the skills necessary for success in both academic and social domains. Teachers and staff in therapeutic classrooms receive specialized training in addressing emotional and behavioral challenges and, if needed, work closely with mental health professionals. The curriculum and interventions are tailored to meet the specific needs of each student. This may involve personalized learning plans, behavior management strategies, or counseling services. The small class sizes allow for more individualized attention and support than can often be done in traditional classrooms.

The Ames Community School District received a Therapeutic Classroom Incentive Grant in May of 2021 to establish therapeutic classrooms for learners whose social-emotional or behavioral needs affect their ability to be successful in their current learning environment. The Therapeutic Classroom Incentive Grant was established through state legislation signed into law in 2020 and is part of a statewide effort to increase mental health support for children, youth, and families.  Therapeutic supports include such things as social-emotional skill building, skills to cope with stress and trauma, mental health treatment, and crisis intervention and follow-up.

According to Iowa Governor, Kim Reynolds, “We want our kids to be at their best when they’re in school and this grant supports school districts taking that next step to further support their students so they have every opportunity to be successful, This work is critically important and we must continue to work collaboratively with schools, community mental health providers, and our Area Education Agencies to support students and their whole health.”

Our new therapeutic classrooms are a testament to our commitment to supporting the holistic development of our students. These specially designed spaces provide a safe and nurturing environment where students can receive individualized support and therapeutic interventions tailored to their unique needs. By integrating these classrooms into our educational framework, we are dedicated to fostering emotional well-being, resilience, and academic success for all students. The Ames CSD is excited to see the positive impact these therapeutic classrooms will have on our community and look forward to the continued growth and success of our students.