Special Programs

Media

 The Media program promotes: 1) reading and appreciation of good literature, 2) development and application of study and research skills and, 3) creative expression using a variety of contemporary information technologies from word processing to video.

The Media Center is both a library and technology center providing a comprehensive program of instruction, support services for the classroom teacher and opportunities for student reading. writing and other creative needs, which contribute to personal fulfillment and intellectual growth.

The center has an excellent collection of print and non-print materials and computer software. Facilities are open before and after school and include computer labs, areas for television, photography, and graphics production. Elective courses are offered in a variety of these areas.

Advanced Learning Program

Students receive services primarily through the humanities, advanced mathematics levels, and a three-year sequence of seminars that encamp asses discussion of classical texts, research skills, and community action/leadership projects.

English as a Second Language (ESL)

 The ESL program is designed for non-native speakers of English whose language skills need strengthening. Instruction is given in speaking, listening, reading and writing as well as in American culture and history. There are three levels of ESL instruction. Students are assigned to classes according to the level of their English language proficiency. The average student will remain on each level for a period of one year. In cases where there is significant growth in the student's language proficiency, class assignments are adjusted.

Special Education

The Special Education programs provide a variety of services for students who have been identified by a planning and placement team (PPT) as having a handicapping condition. The PPT develops an individual educational plan (IEP) for each eligible student. The special education and related services may include, when appropriate, resource room, self-contained classes, collaborative teaching, speech and language therapy, psychological services, social work services, occupational and physical therapy, and special transportation arrangements.

Guidance

 The goal of the guidance program is to assist all students in making a satisfactory adjustment to school, planning their educational program and making sound college and vocational choices. The following services are offered through the guidance program: individual counseling, group counseling, and group guidance sessions. Individual services include counseling with students concerning academic performance and personal issues, parent contacts and meetings, parent-teacher conferences, course placement and scheduling, and referrals or special services and testing. Social Work

The school's social worker is available as a liaison between the school, the home, and the community. The goal of the social worker is to enable students experiencing emotional, social or personal problems to cope and function more adequately in their school setting.

Health Services

A school nurse is available at the school to protect and improve the health of students. The nurse appraises students' health status and needs, organizes vision and hearing screenings, follows up on students requiring physical examinations, serves as a resource to the health component of the educational program, and assists with emergency situations and the administration of first aid.

Psychological

School psychologists serve to enhance the intellectual and emotional development of all students. The services available are designed to foster an understanding of intellectual strengths and limitations and develop a positive learning environment for students. To achieve this end, psychologists conduct individual assessments and provide counseling services to students as well as consult and collaborate with parents, school staff, and community resources.

Speech

Instruction by trained specialists is provided in speech correction and development and in the improvement of oral communication skills. In addition to evaluation and therapy services, the speech pathologist coordinates speech improvement programs in the regular classroom and the home.

Instructional Support

All students scoring below the remedial standard on state wide testing or those recommended by their teachers will receive special assistance in language arts, writing, reading, and mathematics. Students whose academic performance is significantly below their school ability are also eligible for this assistance in lieu of foreign language.

"Many students pointed out that the Student Council and the Program Team provide opportunities for students to have real influence in school decisions. Teachers trust you."