Best of River Valley 2024 Edition | Page 99

Services only requires each staff member to obtain 15 hours per year .
To help their students thrive , Stepping Stone ’ s teachers and teacher aides are consistently expanding their knowledge on a variety of topics . During the past year , for instance , the early childhood developmental specialists and direct care support staff have been learning ways to make the transition between school and home easier for their students .
“ Professional development trainings allow me to expand my knowledge base in different areas ,” said Kristina Yones , an Arkansas Better Chance teacher at Stepping Stone . “ The more training I receive , the more knowledge and insight I gain . Developing new skills and learning the best practices according to the latest standards in education will help me become the best educator I can be .”
Stepping Stone School for Exceptional Children 1036 Highway 64 E . Alma , Arkansas 72921 479-632-3813 www . steppingstonearkansas . com
Turning Disabilities Into Capabilities
Jobs + Plus , the vocational division of Stepping Stone , works to meet the needs of adults , ages 18 and over , with developmental / intellectual disabilities . They offer job training and daily living skills to help these individuals become as independent as possible . This , in turn , builds their self-esteem and allows them to make a positive contribution to their community . Stepping Stone ’ s adult program also provides independent living opportunities , transportation and supportive living services , as well as a 24-hour medical intermediate care facility . Stepping Stone ’ s adult program currently serves 80 individuals .
For more information about what sets Stepping Stone apart from other educational and therapeutic programs in the region , schedule a tour and see firsthand the hard work and dedication that goes into helping children and adults with special needs succeed .