The McGillis Learning Center currently accepts students with a primary diagnosis of a language-based learning difference such as dyslexia. An applicant’s cognitive ability (Full Scale Intelligence Quotient determined by a psychologist) must fall in the average to superior range. Our program requires that students have the intellectual ability to acquire information and move forward in our curriculum. We currently accept students in grades 2-6.
Diagnosis: The Learning Center program is designed to meet the needs of students who have a diagnosis of a specific language-based learning disability, such as dyslexia, dysgraphia and dyscalculia. An educational psychological evaluation must be conducted by a licensed psychologist working independently of The McGillis School and must be current within a two-year period at the time of application.
Cognitive Ability: Students entering The Learning Center typically demonstrate high intellectual potential and lower than expected academic performance. They have solid abstract reasoning abilities and are able to progress in an academic environment.
Openness to new ways of learning: A child with diagnosed dyslexia or a language-based learning difference needs to be receptive to new ways of learning and be willing to work hard to acquire strategies as a means of achieving academic independence.
Needs we do not address: The Learning Center program is not designed to effectively meet the needs of students who have learning difficulties that are the result of primary emotional or behavioral problems, below average cognitive ability, Pervasive Developmental Disorder or Autism Disorder (including Asperger’s Syndrome), or Traumatic Brain Injury. In addition, The Learning Center cannot effectively serve students with significant physical limitations inhibiting their ability to take full advantage of multi-sensory techniques and our Specialty programs.