Dogwood (Billerica)

Staff-to-student ratios, which are based on student need, are typically from 1:3 to 1:4. Adjustments are made to meet individual student needs
Awake overnight staff performs bed checks every 15 minutes throughout the night
Doors and windows are alarmed
Medication storage areas are locked
Security cameras are located in common areas
Yards are fenced

The Guild’s residential staff receives training and support in menu planning and cooking
House gardens are planted and maintained by students and staff. The gardens provide produce during the summer and encourage students to expand their enjoyment of healthy foods
Specialized diets for food allergies or medical conditions are available
On-duty nursing is available weekdays from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. and weekends from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
On-call nursing is available 24 hours every day, 365 days per year
All medical services, including on-site and off-site specialists, are coordinated by nursing staff
Services are available to care for students with medically complex needs
Students are accompanied to dental and medical appointments

Students participate in Special Olympics; the YMCA; and Belmont S.P.O.R.T. (Special Programs Organized for Recreation Time), including bocce, swimming, water aerobics, dancing, flag football, ice skating, bowling, self-defense, soccer, floor hockey, and basketball
Summer trips to beaches, hikes in the spring and fall, winter sledding and other seasonal favorites are offered
Afterschool activities include yoga, music and dancing, expressive therapy groups in art, drama, and music
Students may participate in school dances and parties, including the annual spring formal
Visits to malls, restaurants, movies, libraries, and parks occur regularly
Community outings include the Freedom Trail, Boston Common, Harvard Square, Walden Pond, Franklin Park Zoo, New England Aquarium, amusement and water parks, museums, craft fairs, cultural festivals, auto shows, Fenway Park, Gillette Stadium, TD Garden, and more