Sanford Shapiro looks at The White Oak School
Thursday, October 6th, 2005
Sanford Shapiro looks at The White Oak School
© 2005 Sanford Shapiro
The White Oak School is a day school west of Springfield Massachusetts that serves emotionally intact students who are between the ages of 9 and 18 with (primarily) language-based learning disabilities.
David Drake, who continues as head of school, founded White Oak in 1990. I first visited the school in 1993. At that time it resided in West Springfield with a handful (it seemed) of students in some older smallish buildings (perhaps two of them). For me, the current site with acres of beautiful land and new well-lit buildings reflect the overall quality of the school and the understated but substantial expertise and experience of its director. Those familiar with the history of schools for kids with learning disabilities know that David Drake’s father Charles founded the Landmark Schools and was a seminal figure in the field. David Drake seems interested only in creating good and effective education for bright, dyslexic students and he appears to have done so.
Every faculty member I spoke with seemed thrilled at the progress and success of the school. Everywhere I went on campus people expressed a level of job satisfaction that is impressive. I know how clearly children benefit from such an atmosphere.
Small classes, with each child receiving one-to-one skills tutorials throughout the day, are hallmarks of the school. Research-based and multi-sensory direct skills instruction forms the basis for curriculum delivery. Study skills development, such as note taking and organization, are an everyday part of instruction. The school delivers on its promise to promote literacy and study skills for children with language learning disabilities.
Related at this site: The White Oak School
I have wondered about schools in the area that can work with highschoolers with ADD and LD.
Claudia,
Besides White Oak School, Landmark in Pride’s Crossing and Eagle Hill School in Hardwick MA come to mind. Assuming you have a specific kid in mind, how does his/her ADD impact behavior? That’s one of the many pieces that would influence the school choice.
I wonder if the school accept non verbal kids with learning difficulties
Tripti; Do you really mean “non verbal kids”? Or, do you mean kids with non verbal learning disabilities, which is entirely different thing?
I as desperately looking for a school for our 12 year old son who is developementally delayed, ADD and possible NLD. Would White Oak be a fit or could you offer other resources? He is currently in Essential Life Skills at public schools and is frustrated with the program and starting to give up on school.
Kelly,
White Oak School is not for your son’s profile of DD.
I would give David Drake a call (White Oak school head) as he may be able to steer you in the right direction. You didn’t say but I’m assuming you live in the Springfield MA area.
Hi,
I was wondering if this school participates with students that are currently being homeschooled because of their mild LD? I was told that there is a school in Westfield, that is private, that will work with you if you homeschool your child. I am curious if this is that school. Any info you have would be very appreciated!
Thank you,
Lynne
Lynne,
I’m not sure. I’d call them and find out. David Drake is the head of school.