2019-2020 Admission Viewbook

MARBURN ACADEMY

ELEMENTARY | MIDDLE SCHOOL | HIGH SCHOOL NEW ALBANY, OHIO

Welcome from Marburn Academy Every morning, our halls fill with students who have struggled at nearly every step of their educational journey. Yet, somehow they find the courage to walk through our doors and trust that we, as a community, are going to see them differently. And we do. We see their strengths, we treat them with respect and dignity, we listen to their words, we hold them to high standards, and we stretch them further than they would have ever thought possible. We cultivate opportunities for our students to be successful; then, we help them see how their work produced that success.

Marburn Academy was founded on the conviction that every child is capable of succeeding. Our charge, as educators, is to meet our children where they are, to seek an understanding of them as the incredible individuals they are, and to empower them to leverage their strengths. We want our students to become self-aware as learners. Then, they can determine what they need to be successful and how best to advocate for themselves.

During the past 38 years, Marburn has been a leader in research-based, educational best practices for students with dyslexia, ADHD, and executive function issues. We are one of only 15 school programs in the country that is accredited by the Academy of Orton-Gillingham Practitioners and Educators. Our carefully constructed small classes are led by a diagnostic, relationshipfocused, data-driven, and multisensory approach.

We know that setting clear and measurable goals creates successful outcomes; therefore, we coach our students in the goal-setting process and the development of organizational and selfmanagement skills to accomplish those goals.

The foundation of our program is built upon the strength of our teachers. Our teachers are lifelong learners, and they consistently hone their skills through weekly professional development and training. Our students’ resilience and strength inspire us daily. We are deeply committed to this population and continually strive to extend that impact beyond the walls of the school.

If you are interested in learning more, contact our Admission team today. Together, we can build a bright future for your child!

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1 VERY

IMPORTANT MISSION At Marburn Academy, we celebrate students who learn differently, empowering them to awaken their potential, to achieve success in school and life, and to drive positive change in our communities.

5 EQUALLY

IMPORTANT CORE VALUES Marburn Academy’s core values guide our work, determine our priorities, and inform our decision making at all points.

Growth We believe that everyone is capable of growing and learning and that learning is a lifelong process.

Community We believe every individual deserves a community where they feel valued and accepted, and where their strengths are acknowledged and leveraged.

Communication We believe all communication should be open, honest, clear, timely, recursive, and direct.

Innovation We believe in being on the cutting edge of research, best practices, and technology, and that innovation requires creativity, commitment, and a clear vision for the future.

Sustainability We believe that Marburn Academy is the standard bearer for the education of students with learning differences in Central Ohio. We are committed to excellent stewardship to ensure our long-term success.

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3 ANSWERS TO

“WHAT IS MARBURN ACADEMY?” Marburn Academy is a not-for-profit, independent day school devoted to serving

the educational needs of students with learning differences such as dyslexia, ADHD and Executive Function difficulties.

Marburn Academy is the only school in Central Ohio with academic and co-

curricular programs designed to address the full range of unique learning and personal development needs of students with dyslexia, ADHD and executive function difficulties.

Marburn Academy is a school that educates more than 350 students year-round

in day school and summer programs and follows a division structure. Lower Division serves grades 1–5; Middle Division serves grades 6–8; and High School serves grades 9–12. Lower and Middle Division classrooms are built upon a model of 16 students and 2 full-time teachers. High School classrooms are 16 students and 1 full-time teacher.

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5 ACCREDITATIONS AND AFFILIATIONS

Marburn Academy is accredited at the highest level by the Independent Schools Association of the Central States (ISACS.)The Ohio Department of Education accepts this accreditation and recognizes Marburn Academy as an independent 1–12, non-public school.

Marburn Academy is an International Dyslexia Association (IDA) Accredited Program.

Marburn Academy is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) and the Ohio Association of Independent Schools (OAIS).

Marburn Academy is one of only 15 schools in the nation to have its language instruction program accredited by the Academy of Orton-Gillingham Practitioners and Educators (AOGPE).

8 MARBURN ACADEMY STATISTICS (2018-2019) Current Enrollment - 285

Year Founded - 1981

Student/Teacher Ratio Lower and Middle Divisions - 8:1

Student/Teacher Ratio in High School - 16:1

Ethnically Diverse Students - 17%

Number of co-curricular opportunities offered - 20+

Total number of faculty - 52

Total number of employees - 92 5

10 REASONS TO CHOOSE MARBURN ACADEMY

Your child has a learning difference such as dyslexia, ADHD, or executive function difficulties, and they want to do well in school.

You are looking for smaller class sizes.

You want teachers who will never allow your child to be academically or emotionally left behind.

Marburn teachers understand how your child learns and continue to work with them until they understand.

Your child needs teaching approaches that break down assignments to fit their individual needs.

Two teachers in every Lower and Middle Division classroom help your child stay focused and provide you with ease in getting help when needed.

You want a school environment that is free of harassment and intimidation, where your child is free to be themselves and be accepted for who they are.

The tools your child gains here will assist them in being successful in life and in pursuing their dreams and ambitions.

You are looking for a school environment that limits stress and anxiety.

You want a school with a sense of community: a school that celebrates your child.

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4 COMPONENTS OF

THE MARBURN DIFFERENCE ● Positive, safe learning environment

● Instructional approaches based on scientific research and best practice ● Executive function skill development across all content areas

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● Focus on remediation over accommodation, when possible

ACCOMPLISHMENTS WHILE AT MARBURN Your child will gain confidence in their abilities.

Your child will feel they can learn.

Your child will develop trust in their teachers.

Your child will realize it is possible to breathe...to be excited to go to school every day.

Your child will learn to self-advocate.

Your child will become a valued member of the Marburn community.

7LEADERSHIP SKILLS

YOUR CHILD WILL LEARN AT MARBURN When students graduate from Marburn Academy, they are different people from when they began. They work smarter, they are more confident, and they are more adept at facing change.

Seven skills that will go with them into the future: Self-awareness • Critical thinking • Communication • Relationship Building The Knowledge that sometimes questions are better than answers Time management and organization • Collaboration

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THINGS TO KNOW

ABOUT OUR CURRICULUM 1. Marburn’s advisory structure is designed for all grade levels and provides a forum for students to develop essential skills beyond traditional academics. Students learn to navigate through goal setting, identifying strengths and weaknesses, perseverance, and much more. Advisors serve as the point person for each student, ensuring students feel connected and understood moving through the academic program. Throughout all levels, advisors advocate for student needs, develop student plans, and understand the individual strengths, challenges, and needs of each student.

2. Orton-Gillingham language classes provide a solid instructional foundation throughout Lower and Middle Division and into High School. The Orton-Gillingham approach is a carefully sequenced, systematic, multisensory, diagnostic, and prescriptive instructional process that builds upon intensive practice of the sound/ symbol system of language.

3. Marburn Mathematics focuses on a balanced math approach, understanding the importance of conceptual understanding and procedural fluency that leads to the successful application of mathematics. Using Eureka Math as our core program, we infuse language into mathematics by directly instructing key vocabulary, teaching students how to tackle word problems, and asking students to explain their thinking.

In addition, we intensify our curriculum with daily fluency practice and specific time for math intervention or extension of understanding. To ensure consistency across divisions, common strategies and vocabulary are used throughout the School.

4. Hands-on, experientially based classes are more than a lecture: students participate. This approach enables non-intuitive learners to acquire the academic sub-skills necessary for success, both with higher-level critical thinking and problem solving. Throughout all subjects, including Math, Science, Social Studies, and English, students step out of the classroom to experience the world. Trips have included Washington D.C., a world famous theatre festival in Canada, and the Stratford Ecological Center.

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5. Executive Function development focuses on coaching and counseling over consequence. Students learn how to establish effective social interaction and problem-solving techniques; how to strengthen self-image; how to build tools and strategies to encourage independence; and how to successfully follow their dreams

and ambitions while striving to reach their full potential. Specifically, in High School, graded courses known as Task and Lead systematically help students develop the tools to sustain themselves through their lives.

6. Project Lead the Way (PLTW) is designed to assist High School students in developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills in an engineering and projectbased framework. These courses stretch the knowledge that is obtained in traditional science courses.

7. Affinities exploration is a mindset at Marburn: we encourage students to identify and explore areas of personal and academic interest through a variety of outlets.

For example, May Term is an intensive two-week session for High School students, during which students examine a topic in detail. Courses include specific areas of art, design, cultural, and civic issues; building; home economics; and international trips, including a trip to Canada and a Costa Rican trip where students live with local families to experience village life. Students also explore affinities through our Voyageurs Trips, athletics, after-school programs, and performing arts.

8. 1-1 Device Program Educational goals for this program include: · Improved communication · Increased collaboration · Performance-based learning · Digital citizenship and internet safety · Increased knowledge of available assistive technology

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6FUN ACTIVITIES AT MARBURN Rappelling in our gymnasium Technology classes 3D print useful items such as functioning bubble wands Global community studies raise money for charitable organizations Student volunteers partner with our local city for area beautification Exciting visitors – Emmy-award winning film director; local botanists; professional architects Voyageurs Trips – outdoor adventure programs to help students explore new interests while developing student confidence, discovering affinities, and shaping character

16 CO-CURRICULARS

At Marburn Academy, in addition to developing academic skills, we place emphasis on developing the whole child by offering a wide range of affinity-based, experiential co-curricular opportunities. Athletics focuses on learning fundamental techniques and strategies. After-school programs give students the opportunities to actively explore, identify, and develop their natural affinities. (Below are just a few of the programs available.)

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Athletics Volleyball • Basketball • Golf • Ultimate Frisbee • Cross country • Cheerleading • Soccer After-School Programs Robotics • Lego Club • Creative Arts Magazine • Minecraft Club • Girls on the Run/Let Me Run • Fencing • Glitter Club • Yoga • Ceramics Performing Arts Fall Musical (1st through 5th grade) • Spring Musical (6th through 12th grade)

20+ COLLEGES THAT HAVE

ACCEPTED OUR STUDENTS

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PHASES

IN THE ADMISSION PROCESS Marburn Academy offers rolling admission, which means we have no application deadline, and students in grades 1-10 may apply and be admitted through the school year, as space allows. Please know that our first cycle of financial aid awards takes place in early spring.

We recommend inquiring early.

Phase l includes a phone conversation with the Marburn Admission department to determine initial eligibility.

Phase ll is a request for student materials. Such materials include a WISC–V or Woodcock Johnson Test of Cognitive Abilities, the current ETR or IEP, report card, and diagnostic or cognitive evaluation, if available.

Phase III includes a tour of Marburn Academy for the family in conjunction with a student interview, in which your child will meet with an Admission Office representative. If Marburn Academy appears to be a good fit for your child, the process moves to Phase IV. The application, $100 non-refundable application fee, teacher recommendations, and Authorization to Release Records forms are due just before Phase IV begins.

Phase lV includes a full-day shadow visit at Marburn for your child, or possibly two full days.

While your child experiences our classroom environment, teachers and the Admission team will evaluate their learning style, behavior, cooperation, and peer group connectivity. Following the shadow day, your child will be given either a portion of the Woodcock Johnson Reading Mastery Test or the Key Math assessment, depending on their greatest academic need.

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BEHAVIORAL CONSIDERATIONS When students have struggled with persistent school failure, they often develop lessthan-ideal strategies to avoid—or escape—academic situations. Early identification and intervention has kept many students from experiencing the loss of self-esteem, which can drive these behavioral issues. If not identified early enough to avoid difficulties, behavioral issues may appear. At times we find that these behavioral issues can be reversed with remediation, support, and proving to the child that they are capable of succeeding.

However, our program is not designed to serve students with persistent or severe behavior problems stemming from primary neurological, psychological, or emotional problems.

3Frequently Asked Questions about Tuition and Financial Aid

What does it cost to attend Marburn?

2019-2020

Grades 1st–8th grades

Tuition $28,370

9th–12th grades

$29,830

Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship (JPSN)*

AVERAGE Marburn Need-based Financial Aid Range**

ODE funding impacts 95% of Marburn families

Currently impacting 45% of Marburn families

AVERAGE Tuition Cost to Families***

$10,025

$4,000–$11,750

$12,460

* JPSN Scholarship awards may vary. See below for more information on scholarships available through the Ohio Department of Education (ODE). ** Award amount will vary based on each individual family’s financial circumstance. Average shown is based on the middle 50%, and awards may be less or more than the range outlined. *** Amount after aid is applied.

What does the average family pay?

Currently, 45% of our families receive need-based aid from Marburn Academy, and approximately 95% receive funding from ODE. Families, on average, pay $12,220 a year.

What resources are available to families?

Marburn Academy Need-Based Financial Aid In 2018-2019, Marburn Academy distributed $1.1MM in need-based aid.

Ohio Department of Education The Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship and the Autism Scholarship**** are available to students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP). These awards are determined by the primary disability condition identified on the student’s Evaluation Team Report (ETR).

12-Month Payment Plan Marburn Academy families can choose to make monthly payments over 12 months.

529 Plan / Tax Incentives Families may now use 529 Plans towards K-12 tuition. ****Marburn Academy serves a limited number of students on the autism spectrum whose predominant presenting issues are with dyslexia, ADHD, executive functions, reading, writing, and/or math.

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SERVICES MARBURN

OFFERS IN CENTRAL OHIO Seminars Each year, Marburn Academy offers a series of free community parent seminars, which focus on current research and innovation in the area of learning differences.

Free Early Reading Screenings Marburn Academy offers free early reading screenings for children in grades K–2 whose parents want to know if their child may encounter difficulty in learning to read.

Summer School Marburn’s summer courses offer exciting, hands-on instruction for experiential learning.

Tutoring We offer one-on-one or small group tutoring with highly trained Orton-Gillingham and math tutors. #MarburnCon Marburn hosts an annual conference on learning differences in education.

Central Ohio College Fair for Students with Learning Differences We welcome local middle and high school students to speak with colleges from across the nation about programmatic options and accommodations available for students with learning differences.

For dates and specific program offerings, visit www.marburnacademy.org.

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MEET YOUR CHILD’S CLASSMATES 15

To begin the Marburn Academy admission process, please contact the Admission Office at 614.433.0822 or complete our online inquiry form. We are happy to discuss our program with you and learn more about your child’s needs.

MARBURN ACA DEMY

9555 Johnstown Rd. New Albany, OH 43054

MARBURN

P: 614-433-0822

F:A614-433-0812 CADE

MY

www.marburnacademy.org twitter.com/marburnacademy facebook.com/marburnacademy instagram.com/marburnacademy

Marburn Academy admits students without regard to race, color, creed, gender or national origin.

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