GENERAL INFORMATION:
The Program for Advancement of Learning (PAL) is designed for students who have a primary diagnosis of a language-based learning disability and/or AD/HD and who have at least average to superior intellectual ability. Space is limited; therefore, each application is evaluated carefully to identify students whose needs best match the nature of support offered in PAL. All applicants must submit diagnostic materials that describe and support the above PAL admissions criteria, along with a PAL Supplementary Application which you may download as a PDF file or apply online. Diagnostic testing typically must be administered within three years of application and include:
1) Cognitive testing - Results from the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS-III), the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-IV), or other comprehensive cognitive tests, such as the Woodcock-Johnson Test of Cognitive Ability. Test results must be accompanied by a narrative report and subtest scores. Please note that the WASI (Wechsler Abbreviated Scale of Intelligence) is not accepted.
2) Achievement testing - Results from an individually administered achievement test (e.g., Woodcock-Johnson, WIAT) indicating current levels in:
- Reading (word recognition and reading comprehension)
- Written Language (must include written expression)
- Math (computation and math reasoning ability)
The WRAT, or other abbreviated achievement measures, are not accepted.
Additionally, please submit an Individual Education Plan (IEP) or its equivalent, if available.
An interview with PAL is strongly recommended and may be required in some cases. Please contact the PAL Learning Center directly at 617-333-2250 for available dates and times.
PAL will be offering a group information session on the following dates in 2008: February 18, February 20, February 22, March 10, March 17, April 21, April 23 and April 25. All group information sessions are scheduled for 2:00pm. If you would like to reserve a space, please call 617-333-2250.
Instructions:
Please submit directly to the PAL Learning Center:
1. Diagnostic testing (see above)
2. Individual Education Plan (IEP) or its equivalent, if available
3. PAL Supplementary Application - download as a PDF OR complete online form
Note: SAT, SAT 1, or ACT scores are NOT required of PAL applicants.
Mail:
The PAL Learning Center
Curry College
1071 Blue Hill Avenue
Milton, MA 02186
Fax: 617-333-2018
Tel: 617-333-2250
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Q: What is the nature of the support offered by PAL?
A: Students meet regularly (two to three times per week) with a PAL instructor - a learning specialist who is also a Curry College faculty member - in a combination of individual and small group sessions. Students are helped to understand their learning styles and, based on that understanding, to develop and implement strategies in areas such as reading, writing, note-taking, time management, organization, and test-taking. (See PAL brochure for more information.)
Q: What are the criteria for acceptance into PAL?
A: PAL admits students with language-based learning disabilities and/or AD/HD, who have intellectual ability ranging from at least average to superior, and who can understand and interact with college level material (i.e., analyze and synthesize abstract concepts). Further, students must have independent living skills and be motivated to participate as full partners in their learning (as revealed by attendance and commitment to PAL and other classes).
Q: My testing does not provide a specific diagnosis. Should I still apply to PAL?
A: Yes. We can usually determine on the basis of the diagnostic information you submit whether your disability meets our criteria. The special education professionals at your school may also be able to help you answer this question.
Q: Can I submit testing that is older than is specified by PAL?
A: Certain circumstances will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Generally, testing should be current (within the past three years) so we know exactly what your ability and skill levels are at the time of entrance to college. We welcome older testing along with current testing, if available.
Q: My high school is unwilling to do updated testing and/or is unwilling to administer the tests you require. What do I do?
A: Many private educational consultants, children’s medical centers, and psychologists will conduct testing for college admissions purposes. Curry’s Educational Diagnostic Center (EDC) also provides testing for a fee (please contact 617-333-2314 for more information). This testing is also likely to be used for more than just one purpose in the student’s future so it is worthwhile to have current testing, indicating adult ability levels, on hand.
Q: Does PAL provide support for social skills issues such as those associated with Asperger’s Syndrome and/or some nonverbal learning disabilities?
A: PAL was developed to support students with language-based learning disabilities. It is limited in its ability to support difficulties in social settings, independent living skills and daily decision-making. PAL does not offer training in social skills. Students with needs in these areas are generally not appropriate for PAL.
Q: Does PAL provide support for students with Traumatic Brain Injury, psychiatric disabilities, sensory or motor impairments, or other disabilities?
A: PAL is not designed to support students whose primary disabling condition is other than a specific learning disability and/or AD/HD. Students who are accepted to Curry College who have such conditions are eligible for reasonable accommodations as defined by various federal and state laws. Please contact Dr. Tom Byrne (617-333-2182) for more information about these services.
Q: Can I be accepted into the College but not into PAL?
A: Yes. In some instances it is decided that the program is not well suited to your needs; however, you may be accepted into the College without PAL services based on standard Admissions criteria.
Q: Is an interview required?
A: An interview with both PAL and the Admissions Office is strongly recommended, and some applicants may be called for an interview. To schedule an interview with PAL, please call 617-333-2250. You are also invited to attend an Open House event for the entire college in October or November. (Call 617-333-2210 for additional information.)
Q: If I am denied to PAL may I appeal the decision?
A: Yes. To do this you would submit a request in writing within 30 days after receiving notice of the decision. This request must be accompanied by new or additional information. Appeals not accompanied by new or additional information will not be considered.
E-Mail your comments and questions about the PAL program to:
pal@curry