The Science of Healthy Living is a full-year study that offers students with identified learning challenges the opportunity to acquire a variety of skills that will enable them to successfully transition to postsecondary experiences. This course specifically addresses the needs of each individual learner, which is the most fundamental concept in special education (Council for Exceptional Children, 1997). The Fundamentals of the Science of Healthy Living curriculum equips students with the skills needed to make responsible daily living choices pertaining to meals and physical activity. Additionally, students will learn the importance of living an active lifestyle, how to plan and prepare healthy meals, participate in sustainable living, and establish and maintain proper work and life balance. 

The Science of Healthy Living curriculum is aligned to the New Jersey Student Learning Standards and meets the national and state requirements to prepare our students with the 21st Century Skills needed to live a fulfilling and independent life. An internal document to support this process and address critical life skills is based on the key outcomes for students upon graduation from Perth Amboy High School. According to N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.7, “measurable postse-condary goals based upon age-appropriate transition assessments related to training, education, employment and, if appropriate, independent living and the transition services including a course of study needed to assist the child in reaching those goals” are requirements in special education. Transition services as defined in Individuals with Disabilities Improvement Education Act are a legal requirement and this course will assist in facilitating and optimizing the student’s movement from school to post-school life, “including post-secondary education, vocational education, integrated employment (including supported employment), continuing and adult education, adult services, independent living, or community participation, and be based on the individual student's needs, taking into account the student's strengths, preferences and interests.” Scienc of Living Curriculum