Frequently Asked
Questions About L.E.A.P.
The Learning Enhancement and
Achievement Program
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a printable copy of Frequently Asked Questions
about L.E.A.P (Adobe PDF)
What is L.E.A.P.?
L.E.A.P. is a comprehensive program designed to provide ACA students an integrated framework to maintain and sustain the highest scholastic achievement that they are capable of attaining.
Who is eligible for this program?
Any student willing to work within the framework of the program.
Will testing be required for students that use the program?
No testing is required to participate in the program at this time.
Will the L.E.A.P. program be of any benefit to Honor Students?
Average and above average students will be able to attend the Learning Lab. A teacher will be available to help students identify software/tutorial programs that will help them with most any subject matter they would hope to improve. Through the use of computer programs and other technology, students will be able to explore new ways to increase their vocabulary, test-taking skills, comprehension skills and math skills.
When would my child have time to use this lab?
A portion of an elective class time would be used to accommodate time in the learning lab. There will possibly be some time available after school hours.
What are the services/opportunities available through the Learning Lab?
Three components will be available during the first year of operation:
Academic Support
Test Support
Student/Parent/Teacher Advocate
What is the cost of this program?
A fee of $30.00 per session (class period) will be charged for services offered through the L.E.A.P. program.
How many sessions may my child attend each week?
A student may use the L.E.A.P. program a minimum of one time per week or a maximum of 3 times per week.
Learning Lab
• Academic Support
The Learning Lab is a carefully crafted environment dedicated to the development of life-long learners. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by trained teachers/staff, the Learning Lab provides our students the tools and strategies they need to be successful in the classroom and beyond, if they apply the tools and strategies effectively.
Individual assistance is available in core subjects to support all participating ACA students. Throughout the school week, instruction is enhanced by on-line materials and other assistive technology software.
A student may use his/her time in the Learning Lab to practice skills that will be covered on a standardized test such as the S.A.T. He/she may make computer flashcards for upcoming tests or review a math concept that may require more practice to assure retention. Many opportunities will be available for students through the variety of tools, materials, and personal attention given in the Lab.
• Test Support
Test Support is a L.E.A.P. component that provides students an alternative test site as well as appropriate adjustments in the presentation of the test. This component of L.E.A.P. requires students to meet certain eligibility standards before participation is allowed. To be eligible for such testing, a student must present to L.E.A.P director recommendations from a medical doctor, licensed counselor or a Psycho-Educational Assessment.
As a private school that receives no federal funds, ACA does not fall under any guidelines that mandate accommodations for any learning disabilities. Therefore, it is up to the director of L.E.A.P. to determine the adjustments made during testing. All tests will be furnished by the classroom teacher and graded by the classroom teacher. No modifications will be made resulting in lowering the expectations and standards by which students are assessed. All ACA students will be administered the same exact tests.
Below is a list of possible accommodations:
Presentation:
Present instructions orally
Have the student read the instructions orally to make sure he/she is reading and understanding the directions correctly
Response:
Allow spell-check to be used
Students with difficulty transferring from a board or overhead projector could be given material on a sheet of paper
Allow students more time to complete a test by presenting it in sections
Timing:
Extend allotted time for a test
Setting:
Administer test in a private room or in a place with the least amount of distractions
Allow student to read test aloud
Tests can be read aloud to the student, if the test does not measure reading.
Test Scheduling:
Exams/tests may be rearranged to attempt to accommodate one major exam per day
Other:
Provide on-task/focusing testing prompts
A record of accommodations received will be kept to report to the College Board.
• Student Advocate
Has your child ever had the problem of missing work that you know was completed at home, but never turned in to the teacher? Have you ever heard your child tell you that he/she did not know an assignment was due, or a test was coming up the next day? Does your child have trouble keeping up with everything? Then the student advocate could be the person you need to help you through the school year!
A student advocate is someone that communicates with parents, students and teachers concerning academic progress, study strategies, behavioral progress, as well as the student’s organizational skills on a daily/weekly basis. Below are some specific ways the advocate could be a service to your family:
The Student Advocate will:
- Have a copy of each teacher’s lesson plan and will use them to become familiar with the material the student should know and the homework/test the student will be responsible for each week. She will pass on this information to you and the student and help the student collect, organize, and use the appropriate materials to get his/her work completed and turned in to the teacher.
- Monitor grades on a weekly basis noting any problems that may occur.
- Aid students in initiating communication with parents and teachers regarding grades and/or missing assignments.
- Maintain regular contact with teachers regarding recent sessions, test grades, classroom, and/or parent needs.
- Provide additional resources as needed, as well as help brainstorm ideas for students.
- Set in on parent-teacher conferences.
- E-mail or phone contact with parent weekly to update the parent about the session, problems, and or progress.
- Recommends selection of classes (middle and high school only).
Any questions about the leap program should be directed to Jane Sewell (jsewell@alabamachristian.com)
