For those of our students leaving Lopez Middle School, most will transition to Reagan High School. This is a big transition for both students and parents, but we hope that some of this information will help ease the transition.
Most of the information provided below comes directly from middle school parent questions of students in the A.L.E. department. Sometimes having answers to the small questions can make a big difference in easing anxiety. There are "prep days" held at Reagan leading up to the fall semester, but most of the information provided is not applicable for our students, as students who learn in the alternative learning environment do not need lockers or textbooks, and if they are provided a schedule on those days, it is frequently not correct. For this reason, it is important for you to plan to attend Freshman Day, hosted by Reagan the week before school starts, where you can meet your student's teachers. Once the details are announced, they will be posted on our Lopez A.L.E. calendar. You can also use the link to search for needed information on the Reagan High School website. |
case managersParents will typically know before school starts who their student's case manager is. After the coordinator assigns students to their case manager, teachers send a letter to the parents of their new students introducing themselves and providing their conference period times.
snackTypically there is not a snack time in high school because students transition from period to period. If a snack time needs to be worked into a class time for a particular student, parents should speak to their case manager about this.
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lunchStudents attend 5th period lunch from 12:30-1:20. Paraprofessionals go to lunch with the students to support them if needed.
behaviorTeachers help students adjust to the high school routine in a manner which is best suited for the specific student. If needed, A.L.E. classrooms have a designated "chill area." Each teacher has their own behavior management system, for the most part. A "First_____, Then_____" strategy is a proven method used, as well as a token economy and choice time. The motor lab is also used when there is a student who needs to relocate for their own safety or the safety of others.
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restroomThere is only one A.L.E. classroom that has its own restroom, and this classroom is upstairs. Because of this, most students do not use this restroom. Only students who either have an upstairs class or who need diapering assistance use the upstairs restroom. For students who cannot toilet independently, teachers have a hygiene schedule and document their notes in a hygiene log.
It is imperative that any student who may have an "accident," even if only occasionally, have at least one complete change of clothing including socks and if possible shoes. If teachers are aware that a student is not fully independent in the restroom, then a paraprofessional will always go with them and stand outside the door. |