Welcome to Our Mixed Age Classroom
Our Mixed Age Classroom (MAC) is an inclusive classroom, combining typically developing children and children with diagnoses on the autism spectrum in a seamless classroom setting. We have a proud and longstanding collaboration with the Watson Institute of Pittsburgh through their LEAP Preschool (Learning Experiences: an Alternative Program for preschoolers and parents).
This approach utilizes both behavioral and developmental methods for teaching children with autism. By design, this approach also benefits the typically developing child in many ways. MAC exemplifies the diversity and inclusive component of our school philosophy.
Shady Lane Philosophy
We believe that all children should be given the opportunity to learn through creative discovery and hands on exploration. We provide opportunities for every child to ask questions and learn cause and effect relationships through first hand observations.
Daily Schedule
The Mixed Aged Class offers half day (LEAP), full and extended day opportunities. We offer a well-rounded, enriched, child-based curriculum that fosters Cognitive, Physical, Language, Adaptive and Social-Emotional development. We guide our children through creativity, discovery, and hands on exploration.
Mixed Age Class Team
The Mixed Age Class Team includes Co-Lead Educators Robyn Doyle and Heather Kefalos and Educator Tina Acosta. Tina is one of our longest-serving Educators, having started at Shady Lane in 1990 and serving as an Older Threes Educator for virtually all of her tenure. Tina joined the MAC Team in September 2011. She has earned her Child Development Associate credential.
About the Co-Lead Educators
Robyn Doyle is a life long learner and brings extensive talent and experience to the MAC team. She holds a B.A. in Art Education, as well as an M.A. in Professional Studies in Education. Robyn has also received her Professional Certification in Early Childhood Education from Carlow University. Prior to joining Shady Lane during the 2009-10 school year, Robyn had many experiences working with children with varying exceptionalities as well as children who are typically developing.
Heather Kefalos has five years of experience in the LEAP program, mostly in LEAP's classroom located in Sharpsburg, and was reassigned to serve as LEAP's Co-Lead Educator in the MAC Class in 2010. Heather holds an M.S.Ed. in Elementary Education from Duquesne University and a certificate in Special Education. Like some other Shady Lane Educators, Heather is also a "Shady Lane parent" whose own child is an alum of the MAC Class.
We look forward to sharing a special time with your family.
