What We Do

Extended School Year

Variety established the Extended School Year (ESY) Program to assist students, ages 5-21, with developmental disabilities to maintain and improve skills acquired during the school year throughout the summer months.

The 2020 ESY Program will run Monday-Friday from June 22-August 7.

Program Components

  • High staff/student classroom ratio
  • Individualized instruction.
  • Group social skills/ socialization activities
  • Two daily reinforcement periods with activities of choice and swimming.
  • Daily use of the sensory room
  • Related Services – Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy.
  • Pre-vocational activities for 14-16 year old students. Socialization activities for all students
  • Intensive supports program for students from 16-21 with high needs in behavior, communication, or personal care. Program is staffed 1:1 and includes daily packaging and assembling activities

Our ESY Program is an alternative to School District programs that may not “fit” your child’s needs for structure and consistency.

This program is offered Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 3 PM and runs for 7 weeks. Transportation is usually provided by the School District but Before and After Care is offered for additional fees, if needed.

Applications are currently being accepted. Deadline is May 31, 2020. All new students must submit a current IEP at time of application. Approval is made following review of application, a student interview, funding approval by the School District, and a $100 non-refundable deposit.

7-week program – $4,690
(5 – 16 y/o) Fee includes IEP goals, and daily group socialization/skills activities.
1:1 staff available for an additional $3,600

Intensive Supports 7-week program – $7,950
(16-21 y/o) program fee (includes a 1:1). Individual sessions in Speech/ Language, Occupational, and Physical Therapy are available at the additional cost of $90/session.

To apply for this program or for more information, please call Jean Merkl at (610) 584-4366 ext. 201 or email jean.merkl@varietyphila.org

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