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 Gabriela Rodriguez-Stabile and Carol Finck, and Educator Phoebe Sharp. Phoebe holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work and has worked in the early childhood setting with children on the Autism spectrum. She came to Shady Lane in September 2008.
About the Co-Lead Educators
Gabriela Rodriguez-Stabile graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education from Carlow College. Gabriela began as a member of Shady Lane’s support staff in 2006 before becoming an Educator in the Older Threes Class. She joined the MAC team as Co-Lead Educator in September 2008.
Carol Finck serves as the Co-Lead Educator in the Mixed Age Class as a critical piece of the partnership in MAC with the Watson Institute. Carol holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary and Special Education from Edinboro State University. She has taught for the last ten years in inclusive mixed age classrooms, and has been at Shady Lane since 2005.
We look forward to sharing a special time with your family.
Gabriela Rodriguez-Stabile
Mixed Age Co-Lead Educator
Carol Finck
Mixed Age Co-Lead Educator
