Sage Program

The Sage program at Genesee Lake School provides a highly structured, therapeutically advanced environment for students who require additional individualized support. This specialized behavior-focused program is designed to effectively support students with significant, acute, or critical treatment needs. The primary goal of this program is to help students effectively transition to a general residential placement setting or to a community- based provider.

Student seated

Program Components

  • Sage is a stand-alone intensive stabilization program with higher student-to-staff ratios and comprehensive treatment teams.
  • Although students can foster peer relationships, the number of participants in the program has been reduced to prioritize personal space and skill development.
  • In general, staffing patterns include 1:1 support during awake hours and 1:4 overnight, with access to additional staff for safety.
  • Individualized education programs will be available through in-class and remote learning.
  • Highly trained staff will provide specialized support for these students who have complex needs.
  • With careful transition planning, a successful Sage placement should lead to a more integrated environment within a timeframe of 6 to 12 months.

Admission Requirements

  • Students must be aged 7-21.
  • Eligibility for special education services is required.
  • Referrals must be made through the general referral process. Additional assessment/screening will be required for Sage Program consideration. Emergency placements will not be accepted.
  • Rates must be approved with the applicable funding source prior to admission consideration.

Exclusionary Criteria Can Include

  • Students presenting with AODA issues.
  • Acute psychiatric challenges.
  • Delinquency.
  • Pre-determine or highly impulsive sexualized behavior.
  • Complex medical needs requiring skilled nursing.

For more information about admission to the Sage Program at Genesee Lake School please click here.