About Nova

Our Specialized Therapeutic Preschool Classroom is a supportive, inclusive program designed for preschool-aged children with identified developmental delays or disabilities who would benefit from both early learning and mental health services.

In partnership with the Vancouver School District, we provide a small, nurturing classroom environment where children can grow, learn, and develop the skills they need to succeed—both emotionally and academically.

Our Approach

We believe every child deserves to feel capable, connected, and included. Our program combines:

Our team works together to create a safe, structured, and responsive environment where children can thrive.

Nova Services

Children are supported in their learning through higher teacher-to-child ratios and a smaller number of enrolled children. This allows for a high level of individualized attention, allowing staff to respond to each child’s learning style, communication needs, and emotional development. In this small, supportive environment, we provide the following services:

Integrated Mental Health Services

Therapeutic support is integrated into the school day, helping children:

• Express and manage emotions
• Build positive relationships
• Develop coping and self-regulation skills

Partnership with Families

Families are essential members of the team. We collaborate closely with caregivers to:

• Share strategies and progress
• Build skills that transfer to the home
• Support each child’s overall development

IEP Services and Supports

• On-site speech, occupational, or behavioral therapists, for those who qualify
• Access to a sensory room with opportunities for regulation and skill-building, supported by classroom teachers, specialists, and therapists

Inclusive Learning Experiences

Children in our program regularly have opportunities to spend time in general education preschool settings with typically developing peers. These experiences support:

• Social skill development
• Peer modeling
• Confidence and a sense of belonging

Planning for Transition

As each child’s skills grow, our team collaborates with families and school partners to plan next steps. When appropriate, we support a thoughtful transition into a general education classroom by:

• Gradually increasing time in inclusive settings
• Preparing the child with the skills needed to succeed
• Ensuring continuity of supports throughout the transition process

Who We Serve

This classroom is designed for:

Our Goal

Our goal is to help each child build the skills, confidence, and relationships needed to participate fully in school and community life, while supporting and partnering with families every step of the way.