Student Support Services
MISSION STATEMENT
Saint Mary’s Resource Program aligns with the mission of the whole school while focusing on accepting, supporting, and developing all types of learners in the classroom. We believe all people were made in the image of God, and therefore, as a community, we are here to serve all types of learners by fostering relationships with families and students to meet their individual needs. It is our call as Christians to create a more diverse population of learners and to provide a more supportive opportunity for Catholic education. Lastly, it is a priority to honor the needs of each student entrusted to our care on an individual basis.
Philosophy Statement:
"Be who You Are and Be that Well."
- St. Francis de Sales
SUPPORT FOR OUR RAMS
Students who qualify for accommodations are identified through verified professionals through academic and/or psycho-educational testing that support the findings of a learning disability or a medical diagnosis through a licensed physician, psychologists or psychiatrist as having a mental health issue, or other learning differences sufficient to be designated for special academic support. In alignment with the school’s philosophy, Saint Mary’s High School respects the uniqueness of each student and his/her right and responsibility to achieve his/her full potential.
The Resource Coordinator works with the counselors, teachers, and outside professionals to coordinate accommodations that may be needed and that can be reasonably offered at SMHS. Accommodations do not alter the pacing, expectations, proficiency criteria, or rigor of the coursework or graduation requirements.
Reasonable accommodations may include:
- Extended time on quizzes, tests and finals (50% extended time)
- Use of iPad for writing assessments
- Use of audio version of textbooks
- Preferential seating
- Access to calculator for basic calculations
- Alternate test setting to limit distractions
- Additional accommodations can be requested.
Additional accommodations can be requested, reviewed and discussed after consultation with the Resource Coordinator.
Testing for learning differences is not conducted by SMHS. If psycho-educational testing is warranted, families can meet with the Resource Coordinator to discuss the steps needed to request and begin psycho-educational testing through the local school district (Stockton Unified). From there, the Resource Coordinator will coordinate with SUSD for testing arrangements. Please note the following:
- SUSD does not test for ADHD; this is a medical diagnosis. The school district will test to see if a student has issues that involve processing, memory, attention, organization, etc., that impedes their learning/achievement (and which is also frequently seen in students who have ADHD) but they will not diagnose ADHD.
- SUSD does not conduct assessments over the summer and can only accept requests through their referral process.
Applications for testing accommodations for College Board (SAT, SAT Subject Tests, PSAT/NMSQT, Advanced Placement) and ACT exams are available through the Resource Coordinator or Testing Coordinator.
It is the responsibility of the parent/student to make the request for standardized testing accommodations. Requests are completed and submitted by SMHS on behalf of the student, and must be submitted within the strict application deadline dates set forth by College Board and ACT. Please note, accommodations listed on our plan are not guaranteed to be approved by ACT or College Board. Each entity has detailed guidelines outlining their documentation requirements. You can review the guidelines at www.collegeboard.org.
For more information on dates and deadlines or to request more information, please contact Samantha Swanson.
The College Board reserves the right to deny accommodations to any student regardless of SMHS accommodations or suggestions.
Please contact the Resource Coordinator if you have any questions.
FAQ SECTION FOR ACCOMMODATIONS AND RESOURCES
What is an accommodation?
An accommodation changes how a student learns material. For example, a student with dyslexia might listen to an audio version of a book, or a student with attention difficulties might need to sit near the teacher. Students will still be expected to complete all regular class assignments. If you would like to learn more about accommodations, click here.
What do I need to get an accommodation?
Documentation of psycho-educational evaluation and/or qualified evaluator which describes a learning disability and need for accommodation.
What are learning differences?
To learn more about learning differences, click here.
What are support opportunities are offered for my student?
We currently offer a weekly time designated for students to connect with their teachers in the classroom to receive any additional help they need. We also offer peer math tutoring and essay-writing support as well.
National Testing Accommodations Information
If you are interested in learning more about our services or how to receive accommodations for your student, please contact our Resource Coordinator at 209-954-3340 ext. 124.
