On Monday, November 25, the School District of Lancaster unveiled the new name for its specialized education program, marking a new chapter of growth and commitment to supporting students with unique needs. The program, formerly known as DASH, will now be called Milestones: Comprehensive Educational Solutions, reflecting a renewed dedication to fostering progress and achievement.
Cory King, Principal of Milestones, expressed his enthusiasm during the renaming ceremony. “Today we celebrate the renaming of the former DASH program, which reflects our commitment to grow and support this program,” said King. “The name Milestones is drawn from the work we do with our students—setting milestones for progress and achievement throughout the year. This new name marks the beginning, not the end, of the district’s commitment. We will continue enhancing our offerings, improving our facilities, and supporting our students and staff.”
Milestones provides a unique blend of academic curricula and therapeutic support for students aged 5–21, addressing social, emotional, educational, and behavioral challenges. With individualized, small group, and whole group instruction aligned with Pennsylvania standards, the program aims to help students build academic and social skills in a supportive environment.
One significant addition this year is the implementation of Responsive Classroom, an evidence-based approach to teaching and discipline. This strategy engages students in academics while fostering a positive classroom community, emphasizing developmentally appropriate teaching methods.
“The official changing of our name to Milestones serves as a reminder for staff and students of the progress we’ve made,” King said. “It exemplifies the mantra, ‘It’s not where you came from but where you are going.’”
Charles Hample, SDoL’s Director of Special Education and Gifted Services, highlighted the importance of this program for the district. “I’m excited we can offer full-time emotional support services in the School District of Lancaster,” Hample said. “We aim to provide individualized plans for students so they can fully access the general education curriculum and continue to grow their social skills.”
Milestones supports students across all disability categories and focuses on equipping them with the tools necessary to transition back to their neighborhood schools or achieve graduation. Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is integrated into daily lesson plans, offering students guidance in natural environments to encourage growth and development.
As the program embraces its new name, the School District of Lancaster reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that every student reaches their full potential.
For more information about the Milestones program, please visit the School District of Lancaster’s website: click here.