Educating the Intellectually Disabled Child: Mind, Body, Spirit
At Morning Star Catholic School, we believe that true education goes beyond textbooks and test scores. It touches every part of a child’s being—mind, body, and spirit.
For students with special needs, this whole-child approach is especially important. These children learn differently, experience the world uniquely, and thrive when they are understood and celebrated for who they are. That’s why Morning Star’s mission is centered on nurturing each child to become their personal best in all aspects of life.
Here’s how we do it.
Nurturing the Mind: Academic Excellence with Individualized Support
Every student at Morning Star receives an education tailored to their strengths, challenges, and pace. We use Florida ACCESS standards and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) to guide instruction.
Small class sizes allow for focused, one-on-one instruction.
Modified curriculum supports students with autism, Down syndrome, learning disabilities, and intellectual delays.
Multi-sensory teaching methods keep students engaged and help them retain information.
Our goal isn’t just to teach academics—it’s to help each child love learning and believe in their potential.
Supporting the Body: Physical Growth and Life Skills
A child’s physical development is integral to their independence and confidence. That’s why Morning Star offers daily opportunities to build gross and fine motor skills through:
Occupational therapy to support coordination and self-care
Physical therapy for strength and mobility
Adaptive physical education and recreational activities
Life skills training through our Transition Lab and on-campus practice spaces
From tying shoes to cooking meals to preparing for job training, we empower students to move confidently through the world.
Guiding the Spirit: Faith, Character, and Belonging
Morning Star is a Catholic school that welcomes students of all faiths. Our spiritual formation helps students develop a strong moral compass, deep inner peace, and a sense of belonging.
Daily prayer and weekly Mass offer spiritual grounding and community
Religion instruction adapted to each student’s understanding
Christ-centered relationships foster kindness, patience, and purpose
Faith isn’t an “extra”—it’s the foundation that shapes how we teach, interact, and grow together.
Emotional and Social Growth
Special needs education must also address emotional regulation, communication, and relationship-building. Our team integrates:
Behavioral support and positive reinforcement
Social-emotional learning across subjects and activities
Peer interaction through inclusion programs like Best Buddies and PEERS
Students learn how to express themselves, handle challenges, and build meaningful friendships.
A Unified Approach: Collaboration and Care
What truly sets Morning Star apart is our integrated team approach. Teachers, therapists, administrators, and parents work together to support the whole child.
We don’t just see a student—we see a beloved son or daughter of God with dreams, potential, and a purpose. Everything we do is built around that vision.
Your Child Deserves to Be Known, Loved, and Challenged
When you walk through the doors of Morning Star, you’ll feel the difference. You’ll see a place where joy is evident, relationships matter, and every child is supported to grow in mind, body, and spirit.
Schedule a tour today and discover a school where your child can shine in every area of life.