The Learning Lab program is designed to assist regular education students who demonstrate performance weaknesses in the core academic areas of reading, writing or mathematics, as evidenced by their Connecticut Mastery Test scores or their daily classroom performance. This program strives to improve students’ learning strategies and organizational skills as well as specific academic skills. The Learning Lab is not a specified Special Education program and is designed to support regular education students who need reinforcement of specific skills and concepts in order to meet grade level academic expectations. Students must go through the Child Study Team process to determine eligibility. While parental permission is required in order for students to participate in this program, it is equally important that students who wish to participate are motivated to improve their academic performance. The Learning Lab Program is designed to give short-term intensive support to help students meet grade level curriculum standards. Parental support and active involvement is essential in meeting program goals for each student.

Guidelines For Eligibility

• Documentation that classroom interventions (e.g. extra help sessions, strategic grouping, preferred seating etc.) have been implemented and are not resulting in desired improvements in student learning.
• CMT scores in one or more areas are at Level 2 or lower.
• Interim reports and report card grades in one or more subject areas demonstrate a pattern of weakness.
• Student demonstrates effort in academic pursuits but is not reaping the rewards of his/her effort.

The Learning Lab teacher, student and parents develop a "Learning Plan" and work with the Learning Lab teacher to evaluate and monitor achievement of goals. This plan takes the form of a learning contract.

Consistent attendance and participation in Learning Lab sessions.

Placement is done through the Child Study Team process.

Student demonstrates compliance with the Learning Plan that is developed (e.g. completion of assigned homework, attending extra help and test review sessions, having assignment sheets signed by parents)

Achievement of Learning Plan objectives, with decreasing direct support, consistently demonstrated for at least one quarter of the school year.

Breach of Learning Plan.

Withdrawal of parent permission for participation.