Basic Skills
Su Jordan
Learning Assistance Program

The Learning Assistance Program (L.A.P.) at Panther Lake is a state funded program designed to give reading support to Kindergarten through third grade. Currently three Educational Assistants and the Basic Skills teacher provide the support to students using a tutorial model. Identification of LAP students is based on a rank order of all K-3 students using grade level assessments and classroom teacher input. The prevailing goal is to help students develop strong reading strategies that enable them to be successful with grade level work. As students move or exit the program, other students take their place so that the maximum number of students can benefit.

The academic need of each student in LAP is assessed and specific learning objectives are defined. Mrs. Jordan, the Basic Skills teacher at Panther Lake and the student's classroom teacher are partners in this process. They structure the tutorial and conference with parents as needed. The Educational Assistants provide the tutorial. Each student receives 15 minutes of daily tutoring from Mrs. Cruz, Mrs. Kelly, and Mrs. Bolf. Periodic assessments occur just before report card dates. Because this provides the classroom teacher with updates on each student's progress, it is incorporated in the classroom report cards for parents.

Parents can help by working with the student at home. Some suggestions are to read the current basal story, review a set of flash cards or sight word lists, read a bag book, or just read for fun. Home practice makes a tremendous difference in the attitude and performance of students. Time spent on LAP practice can be counted toward the Read and Succeed Program.

Over the course of the past few years, Panther Lake has developed a rather sophisticated LAP program, delivered by highly skilled and trained Educational Assistants. Each year the plan is reviewed and fine tuned to provide the best for an ever-changing student population. Panther Lake is proud of the caliber of its LAP service and the results it produces.

Questions or concerns may be brought to the attention of Susan Jordan, who oversees LAP, by writing a note or leaving a voice mail at (253) 945-3638.