The Right Approach
As a parent myself, I know you are looking to help your child in the best possible way. I mean, here you are on the black & white policies page doing your homework. Kudos to you, you are a good parent! :) I imagine that, as you’ve been looking for help for your child, you have already heard the names Orton-Gillingham & Science of Reading. Let’s take a minute here to get on the same page about these, and in doing so, the policies should make more sense.
Orton-Gillingham is an approach to administering a literacy curriculum. It incorporates multiple delivery styles to appeal to all types of learners. For instance, it is auditory (students hear the language), it is visual (students do flashcards), and it is kinesthetic (students write or skywrite letters/words). We will break down our language into smaller skills and build on them over time. Lessons are logical and sequential, starting with simple concepts and gradually working up to more complex ones. With this approach, lessons are predictable and consistent without being boring. It is mastery-based so that no one is left behind.
The Science of Reading is exactly as it sounds… it is the study of how the brain learns to read. It is the result of decades of research into cognitive psychology, neuroscience, and linguistics. In its formula, the Science of Reading proves reading comprehension relies on the development of two distinct skills: 1. Decoding (recognizing words) 2. Language comprehension (understanding those words). The curriculum I use is developed according to these standards. We start simple and build from there. Lessons are delivered systematically and sequentially over time.
What is the alternative? I know, I know, this approach is a commitment. It’s time-consuming. The alternative, though, is a disjointed curriculum, quick fixes, more guessing, and relying on contextual clues and memory. Like anything else in life, there is the right way to learn to read and a shortcut to learn to read. In the end, the shortcut is gonna cost you! Life lesson here: Anything worth doing is worth doing right the first time.
Tuition is due monthly and in advance of services. Making the first tuition payment initiates a monthly subscription to be charged on the same day each month for the duration of the program. While you have the option to withdraw at any time, tuition previously paid is non-refundable. Tuition is not based on attendance. Services may be suspended for non-payment. Receipts are issued automatically and suffice for reimbursements if that situation applies to you.
Tuition Policy
For the approach & curriculum to be effective, consistency is key. In the event of an absence, a written email notice in advance would be helpful. Arrangements can be made for the lesson missed. In certain circumstances, a homework lesson can be assigned to be overseen by a parent or guardian, and when applicable, a make-up lesson may be scheduled.
Attendance Policy
Reliable internet and a device with Zoom capabilities are required, including a webcam and microphone. Also, a quiet learning space makes for the best experience. The worksheets and consumables are covered by the registration fee and will be shipped directly to you. Other than that, only a set of sharpened pencils is needed.
Technology Requirements
A positive, productive, and supportive learning environment is the goal at all times for all students. While every effort will be made to support student success, Mrs. Hall reserves the right to discontinue services if a program is no longer an appropriate fit for a student’s educational, behavioral, or instructional needs. In addition, services may be discontinued if a student’s participation consistently interferes with the learning experience of others. Reasonable efforts will be made to communicate with parents and explore possible solutions first before discontinuing services.
Student Conduct
Families wishing to withdraw from a program may do so at any time by providing a written notice via email. No further obligations will be required; however, the registration fee and any tuition that have previously been paid are non-refundable.
Withdraw Policy
Primary communication is by email, and I strive to respond within 1-2 business days. Students’ progress updates will be provided via email throughout the year. While email is primary for communication, the phone number entered at registration will be kept on file in the event of any unforseen last minute technology hiccups. In this case, a text will be sent.
Parent Communication
Student information submitted through enrollment forms is used solely for educational and enrollment purposes and is never sold or shared with third parties. Mrs. Hall will never use your child’s image anywhere for any reason without expressed and written consent.
Privacy Policy