Frequently asked questions
What is a Nonpublic School (NPS)?
The California Department of Education (CDE) certifies schools that serve students with Individual Education Plans (IEPs). A school that has received this certification is referred to as a Nonpublic School (NPS). The Springstone School is an NPS. If your child has an Individualized Education Program (IEP), and if the IEP team determines that The Springstone School is an appropriate placement, then your school district may pay for your child’s tuition because Springstone is certified as an NPS.
What is your tuition and do you only accept private pay students?
Tuition for the 2020-2021 school year is $28,000, not including summer. Summer is $2,600.
How will my child be exposed to mainstream role models and will my child be equipped to attend a mainstream high school?
Families have told us that the norm for their sons and daughters in the mainstream schools has been isolation, which inhibits social and academic growth. We expose our students to a variety of social situations in the communities they will be living and working in as adults in order to practice what they learn at school. We know that when our students leave The Springstone School, they have more options than when they began the program. Those options include returning to mainstream high schools, enrolling in college, and entering the workforce.
How are students transported to and from Springstone?
Parents or the school districts are responsible for arranging transportation for their child. Many of our families have formed carpools.
How are the classrooms organized?
The students are grouped by grade level. Students don't change classrooms, but their instructors move from class to class. There is a maximum of 8 student per instructor. Academically, each student will be challenged according to their ability.
Is there a behavioral incentive program, such as a level system or token economy?
We do not use a classroom level system or a token economy. We look at individual student needs and devise goals for each student and a path for each to achieve those goals.
How do you address behavioral issues?
Students who are physically aggressive fall outside of the scope of our program. We do understand that many students may have a history of these challenges, but have progressed beyond them. This does not exclude your child from consideration. We look at the whole student and determine whether our program can best serve your child. Above all, we will provide a safe learning environment.
What are the school hours?
8:30 - 3:30, except Wednesday 8:30 - 1:00 on Wednesday.
How are parents involved with Springstone?
Parents are invited to and encouraged to attend parent group meetings. Our parents volunteer to assist with major fundraising events such as our silent auction and wine reception.
Is there a summer program?
We run a four-week summer program for new incoming students and those returning students who require more structure during the summer months. Space is limited. The cost is $2,400.
Reach out to us with any additional questions
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