Frequently Asked Questions
Below is a sampling of some of the most common questions that come up during an initial visit to the Alpha School. In addition, some of these questions come up upon the students acceptance into our school.
How long is the school day?
The day begins at 9:00 am and ends at 2:30 pm.
What is the ratio of staff to students?
A typical class of eight students has one special education teacher and one to three assistants. There is usually one staff member for every two students.
How do you handle behavior issues?
Each class has a behavior plan that is developed by the classroom teacher. If a student needs an individual behavior plan, all of the staff who work with the child, meet and develop a plan for that particular child. The plan is sent home for parental approval and then is sent to the Case Manager so that it can become part of the IEP.
Are the staff certified?
All of our teachers and therapists hold certifications or licenses that allow them to work with special needs students. All of our assistants have completed two years of college or they have taken and passed the Para-Pro Praxis Test.
How many students are in a class?
There are usually six to ten students in a class.
Can I observe my child in the classroom?
The school has an “open door” policy and parents can visit and observe their child. The one way glass windows in each classroom allow parents to observe their children without being seen. Parents can also observe their child having therapy. Therapists are willing to train parents in what they are working on with a particular child so that the parent can do the same activities at home. This will serve to enhance the child’s program and help the parent and therapist to work together to improve the child’s skills.
How long are speech, occupational and physical therapy sessions?
Therapy sessions are thirty minutes long.
Is therapy done individually or in a group?
Therapy can be done individually or in a group. The therapist decides which format is appropriate and will best meet each child’s needs.
How is transportation provided?
Transportation is provided and arranged by the sending school district.Transportation can be done by a public school van or bus or by vehicles that are privately contracted by the sending district.
How can the parent communicate with the staff?
A communication book is used by students in the preschool and elementary grades.
The teacher will write news of importance to the parents and they in turn can inform the teacher of anything that they want to convey. In addition, parent conferences are held in November and March and they afford the opportunity for parents and staff to meet. Progress reports are sent home to the parents in November, March and June. The annual IEP which is held at the school is another forum in which the school staff and parents can communicate with each other.
What will determine the child’s acceptance into the school program?
The Principal will review the child’s records. During the initial visit the principal, classroom teacher and therapists will observe the child and determine if the placement will meet the child’s educational and therapeutic needs. The parent will be informed of the school’s decision to accept or not accept their child at the end of visit.
How soon can the child begin school at Alpha?
The child can start as soon as Alpha School receives the IEP and as soon as transportation can be set up the school district.
