Our goal as educators is to ensure that all students are learning. In the event that a child is not meeting academic standards, there is a pyramid of support that we have in place that provides both teachers and parents with strategies and a plan for how to support a particular child. The first level of support takes place in the regular classroom. Our teachers are well-versed in differentiating curriculum for students and meeting their individual needs. However, sometimes a teacher’s attempts to intervene and support may not be enough.

Student Study Team (SST)
A Student Study Team (SST) is comprised of the classroom teacher, the parent, the principal, the Special Education teachers, the School Psychologist and the School Counselor (if necessary). The team works collaboratively to understand the child’s strengths and areas of need and then to create a plan of action.

RAMP Program
In some cases, the student is referred to our RAMP (Reading and Math Support Program) for a period of focused and targeted instruction. If, after the classroom support and the RAMP support, the child continues to not meet standards, an evaluation by the Resource Teacher and School Psychologist may be deemed appropriate by the SST team.

Special Education
If the child qualifies for Special Education under the Federal and State Guidelines, the child may be eligible for one or more services such as our Resource Program, Speech and Language Therapy or Occupational Therapy. If the child does not qualify for these programs, the SST team develops an alternate intervention plan.

GATE Program
In some cases, instead of needing intervention to support learning, students excel in certain areas of the curriculum and need activities and lessons that meet their learning needs. Although the Mill Valley School District does not offer a formal Gifted and Talented program at the elementary level, teachers differentiate their instruction within the classroom by providing lessons, activities or projects that are appropriate for the individual student’s level.

In fourth grade, with permission from parents, students are given a test to determine if they qualify for the GATE cluster in fifth grade. If they do qualify, they are placed in the same class with other GATE students so that they have ongoing opportunities to work with like-minded peers. A formal GATE program is offered once the students reach the Mill Valley Middle School.