Learning Services

In accordance with the Blue Oak School mission “to hold itself to the highest standards of responsible educational innovation, so that students develop the skills and habits of learning that endure,” the School has established a Learning Services program.

Designed to enhance the level of teaching and learning on campus by providing academic resources and support for students, parents and faculty members, the primary focus of the program is to teach students methods and strategies to maximize their independence and academic potential. This is done through interventions that match the student’s unique learning profile. To receive direct services from the Learning Specialist, an educational evaluation should be filed with the Learning Specialist.

Services Provided

• Screening (including preliminary educational testing) and referral services for students referred by teacher or advisor
• Direct instruction of skills to student’s with evaluations on file
• Case management for students with LD or ADHD
• Consultation for teachers and parents for the purpose of enhancing learning for all students
• A multi-modal approach to coordinating all support systems
• Schools Attuned screening and educational plans
  

Procedure for Referring Students to the Learning Specialist

1. The first step in the process is for the student’s homeroom teacher to complete a referral form and provide it to the Learning Specialist.
2. If the student’s past history and current information warrant further evaluation, the Learning Specialist will authorize the teacher to contact the student’s parents to express concerns and to request permission to have the Learning Specialist observe the child in the classroom.
3. Parents must sign and return the Permission to Observe Form before the Learning Specialist can begin to schedule formal observations of the child.
4. After observations of the child have been completed, the Learning Specialist and teacher (and division head if appropriate), will meet with parents to discuss observations, express concerns, make recommendations and answer questions the parents may have.
5. If concerns are characteristic of a learning difference, it will be requested of the family to provide the School with a psycho-educational evaluation on the student in order for him/her to receive support.
6. While waiting for the psycho-educational evaluation, the student will be allowed to receive learning services on a conditional basis.