Learning Assistance Program

Our Learning Assistance Program (LAP) is a state-funded program that provides instruction for students supplemental to the regular education program. Students are given extra support in reading and/or math to accelerate their learning. Educational goals are determined for each student and are evaluated frequently through formal and informal assessments. Students are instructed in small groups and progress is monitored on a frequent basis, with family notification of progress throughout the year. Families are strongly encouraged to become involved in their child’s education, both in and out of school.

Do you need more information?

• Tammy Alonzo, talonzo@nthurston.k12.wa.us, Program Administrator, 360-412-4400 x40240
• Teresa Price, tprice@nthurston.k12.wa.us, Office Professional, 360-412-4462

Teacher Qualification Notice

In an effort to keep parents informed about the qualifications of a teacher, the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) allows parents to inquire at school whether a teacher has met state qualifications and certification requirements for the grade level and subject taught. Families may request information about whether a teacher is under emergency or conditional certificate when state qualifications were waived, information about teacher undergraduate or graduate degrees, including graduate certificates, additional degrees, and major/area of concentration.

NTPS conducts annual audits of teacher assignments to assure that teachers are assigned to teach in areas where they meet Washington State certification/endorsement requirements. Sometimes, but very rarely, NTPS seeks a waiver to certification. When this does occur, it is typically for a teacher a few credits short of completion which they are actively working to complete. There are currently no teachers in our Title I schools providing student instruction under a state wavier.

Families can also inquire about paraprofessionals working with their child in reading, writing, or math. NTPS can provide confirmation that students receive help from a paraprofessional, their state qualifications/licensing requirements. All paraprofessionals that assist children in reading, writing, or math meet state qualifications.

Citizen Complaint Procedures

The complaint procedure is described fully in Chapter 392-168 WAC, Special Service Programs–Citizen Complain Procedure for Categorical Federal Programs. A citizen complaint is a written statement that alleges a violation of a federal rule, law, or regulation or state regulation that applies to a federal program.

• Anyone can file a citizen complaint.
• There is no special form.
• There is no need to know the law that governs a federal program to file a complaint.

Follow steps 1 and 2 to complete the citizen complaint process.

1. File a Citizen Complaint with North Thurston Public Schools. Follow the process outlined in Policy 4312 and Procedure 4312P in NTPS policy governance.
2. If you are unable to reach a satisfactory solution, file a Citizen Complaint through OSPI.