Hand In Hand Options Program

The Hand in Hand Options Program (HIH) is designed to support students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Each student’s curriculum is driven by his or her individualized goals, which are developed from testing provided by psychologists, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and other professionals. Students receive modified instruction in general education classes, small groups, and one-on-one instruction. The curriculum in all classes is modified to meet each student's instructional needs. Educational services at Pope Prep are based on the Individual Education Plan and Psychoeducational testing results.

For more information, contact program director Kim Shaver, kim.shaver@popeprep.org.

Eligibility Criteria

Student criteria for consideration:

Students must have a current Individual Education Plan (IEP) or Student Support Plan (SSP)

Students must have had experience in a school setting

Students must be able to provide self-care, including eating, dressing, bathing, toileting, and grooming

Students should have good communication skills in order to communicate academic and social needs

Students should not have a history of severe behavioral problems

Students should have the ability to participate in 80-minute inclusion classes

Required Documentation

Please send the following information to the admissions office to ensure your student meets our eligibility for acceptance into our Hand in Hand Options Program. Please note that all applicants admitted to the HIH Program will graduate with a Certificate of Completion from Pope John Paul II Preparatory School.

Results of current psychoeducational evaluation (within three years) to include scores from the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC)
Current IEP, 504, or Student Support Plan
Speech/Language, OT, PT reports, if applicable
ABA/Behavioral Specialist report, if applicable
Professional Reference Release Form
Supplemental Information Form