FAQs

What is the Orton-Gillingham Approach?
O-G is a language-based, multisensory, structured, sequential, cumulative, cognitive, flexible and emotionally sound approach. Infinitely adaptable, it is a philosophy rather than a system.

What is dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a language-based learning disability. Dyslexia refers to a cluster of symptoms, which result in people having difficulties with specific language skills, particularly reading. Students with dyslexia usually experience difficulties with other language skills such as spelling, writing, and pronouncing words. Dyslexia cannot be cured! Dyslexia affects individuals throughout their lives; however, its impact can change at different stages in a person's life.

What causes dyslexia?
The exact causes of dyslexia are still not completely clear, but brain imagery studies show differences in the way the brain of a dyslexic person develops and functions. Most people with dyslexia have been found to have problems with identifying the separate speech sounds within a word and/or learning how letters represent those sounds. Dyslexia IS NOT due to either lack of intelligence or desire to learn.

What is Dyscalculia?
Dyscalculia is a mathematical disability in which a person has unusual difficulty solving arithmetic problems and grasping math concepts.

What is Dysgraphia?
Dysgraphia is a neurological-based writing disability in which a person finds it hard to form letters or write within a defined space.

Does the Hutson School give the ISTEP?
Hutson school does not participate in the statewide mandatory ISTEP testing that public schools administer. Instead, Hutson students are given a variety of assessments such as the Woodcock-Johnson III, CTOPP, TOMA, PPVT and GORT. Additionally, ongoing informal assessments are given to assure that student learning is at a level commensurate with their ability.

Is there hope for my child?
YES!!! Some of the greatest thinkers of all time had/have dyslexia. Below are just a few of the more famous thinkers: Charles Schwab, Craig McCaw, Paul Orfalea, Mackenzie Thorpe, Rob Lowe, Nolan Ryan, Don Mullan, Patricia Buckley Moss, Jackie Stewart, Henry Winkler, Robert Rauschenberg, Greg Louganis, Bruce Jenner, Don Winkler, Henry Winkler, Cher, Danny Glover, John T. Chambers, Erin Brokovich, and Sir Richard Branson.

What are the criteria for acceptance?
Acceptance is based on our ability to meet the educational, emotional, and social needs of each student. Information from various evaluations helps to determine those needs.Evaluations need to have been completed within the last 3 years. We have a rolling admissions policy. When vacancies occur, they are filled with the next student on the list whose needs can be met by that particular class opening. Placement at Hutson is made strictly on the basis of being able to meet the needs of the student.

How soon after application can our student be accepted?
Hutson utilizes a rolling admissions policy. When vacancies occur, they are filled with the most appropriate student whose needs can be met by that particular class opening. Students can be accepted at any time during the school year.

Is there tuition assistance?
Yes. Application for tuition assistance can be made at the time of enrollment. Assistance is granted on the amount of funds available through school fundraising efforts.

What is the average student/teacher ratio?
The average student-to-teacher classroom ratio is 6:1.

How long is the school day?
The Lower School hours are 8:25  to 3:15  M-Th and 8:25- 1:15 on Friday.

The High School hours are 8:15-3:30  M-Th and 8:15-1:15  on Friday.

Friday afternoons are reserved for staff development and teaching-team meetings to plan for individual students needs.

What is the school calendar?
The Hutson School has a typical school calendar from August to June. Regular holidays coincide as closely as possible with other schools.

Are students able to return to a regular school program?

Hutson's goal is to maximize the learning of each child. Since no two students are alike, this is a decision that is made between the school and parents. Many students and parents do not wish to leave Hutson. Instead, they see the school as the only school they will attend. However, Hutson has had many students who have returned to their public school/private schools with success.