School Services - Maryland

  The Chimes School believes that all children, regardless of their disability, are able to learn and progress. When it was founded in 1947, Chimes was Maryland's first school for children with moderate mental retardation. Today it continues to serve those children, as well as young people with multiple handicaps, autism and other intense emotional and behavioral needs. 

In September, the Chimes school entered a new era by opening the Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Educational Center.  While much has been said about the modern environs for Chimes new school in Baltimore, the building itself is merely one visible aspect of an innovative approach to education for children with special needs. Complementing the purpose-built structure is a renewed emphasis on how teachers guide and instruct, as well as the types of services and programs on the horizon for these young learners.

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  The Instructional Program

The curriculum focuses on functional academics, with lessons in reading, writing, and mathematics. The school makes extensive use of computers, other technology, and special instructional materials often created by the teaching staff for individual students.

Chimes School also emphasizes behavior management, with students learning social skills and social awareness. When difficulties arise, they are addressed through the therapeutic interventions of crisis management and counseling. We also have a multi-sensory stimulation room where a soothing combination of sound, scent, color, and light brings about a calmer and more receptive frame of mind.

Another emphasis is on acquiring skills for community living, such as the ability to use money, tell time, and use public transportation.


 
  The Vocational Program

This program offers pre-vocational and vocational training based on an individual plan prepared for each student. Students may learn work skills in such areas as:

  • Clerical
  • Product assembly
  • Housekeeping/janitorial
  • Food service
  • Horticulture/groundskeeping
  • Maintenance
  • Woodworking
  • Sewing

The School is fortunate to be affiliated with The Chimes, Inc., a very large provider of adult vocational programs that range from contract fulfillment opportunities in our Work Center, to supervised jobs in the community, to individual placements in competitive employment. Many Chimes School graduates find rewarding careers in these programs. (The parent company also offers residential placements in community-based homes and apartments as well as adult day programs.)

The Extended School Year Program

Chimes School offers an extended year program for students whose individual education plans call for year-round services. This program is held in July and August, and includes both classroom learning and training in skills for community living.

Other Related Services and Programs

  • Social work and counseling
  • Speech/language therapy
  • Behavioral and crisis intervention
  • Nursing
  • Friends and family support group
  • Occupational therapy
  • Physical therapy

An Open Door

Chimes School is accredited by the Maryland State Department of Education for students between the ages of 6 and 21 who have mental retardation, autism, or multiple handicaps. Families or caregivers looking for a suitable school are welcome to call for information or arrange a visit to our new facility, which is in the Seton Business Park at 4810 Seton Drive. Please call 410-358-8270 and ask for the Admissions Coordinator.