LEAD Program

The LEAD program at Chippens Hill Middle School, specializes in Discrete Trial Instruction, or DTI programming. Special educators commonly use DTI to teach complex linguistic, social, academic, and behavioral skills—particularly to neurodivergent students or those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). 

DTI breaks large, complex skills down into small, manageable "discrete" steps. Each individual step is taught through a fast-paced sequence called a trial. A single trial consists of three main parts, often referred to as the ABC framework.

• Antecedent (DS or Discriminative Stimulus): The teacher gives a clear, concise instruction or cue (e.g., placing a red card down and saying, "Point to red"). 
• Behavior (Response): The student responds to the instruction. If they struggle, the educator may immediately provide a planned prompt (like a physical hand-over-hand guide or a gesture) to help them succeed. 
• Consequence: The teacher provides immediate feedback. If the response is correct, they receive highly motivating positive reinforcement (e.g., praise, a high-five, or a preferred toy). If it is incorrect, the teacher provides a gentle error-correction procedure.

We look forward to learning and growing with your child!

LEAD Special Education Teacher- Kayla Leitao

Para Educators- Nicole Carello and Emily Petrillo