THE CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PROGRAM (CAP)
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The Arlington School
Suzanne Loughlin APRN, BC, Director
Arlington School is fully accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). The school is a nationally recognized, private junior-senior high school, providing specialized educational services to adolescents with substantial psychiatric needs. Since its founding in 1961, the school has provided a safe and supportive community where students can grow academically, heal and thrive emotionally, assume greater control over their learning and achieve personal goals.
Enrollment
The Arlington School is an 11-month program that coincides with the traditional school calendar, September to June, with the addition of a summer session in July. Students may enroll at any time within the 11-month program. In addition to NEASC accreditation, the school is approved by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
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Most students are referred by their public school systems and live at home. Parents may also privately place their children and pay their tuition. Some students enroll in the school for a year or less, while others remain for longer periods of time. To determine if a student is ready to return to his or her school in the community, either before or after graduation, schools faculty considers:
- a student's capacity to improve and manage academic expectations;
- a student's ability to keep pace with his or her peers; and,
- a student's capacity to handle routine, classroom pressure
Highly Integrated Academic and Clinical Program
Clinical services are an integral part of a highly individualized program for each student. Teachers and clinical staff work closely with therapists and schools in the community to address the academic, emotional and behavioral problems that have disrupted a student's previous schooling. To foster success and focus on academics, students participate in small-group counseling sessions.
The Arlington School prides itself on the personalized attention each student receives. Its educational programs are specifically designed according to individual ability. The Arlington School offers a full curriculum in English, mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, U.S. history, world history and history electives, physical education, fitness and health. its highly acclaimed creative arts program offers a variety of courses that include studio art, ceramics, photography, media arts, computer graphics, drama and creative writing. Arlington School students compete each year in a juried show of the Small Independent School Art League of New England; invariably, winning multiple awards for their work. Students who satisfactorily complete high school requirements earn a diploma, either from the Arlington School or from the student's high school of record.
College Preparation
Preparation for college is a major focus for Arlington School students. A transition specialist assists students as they develop the skills and knowledge to prepare for their post high-school careers in terms of the college application process, career exploration and identifying community services and internships. Transition services are also provided for students who are preparing to return to their community schools. Arlington School graduates typically advance to competitive four-year colleges, two-year programs, vocational training schools and full-time careers.
Highlights
- A high teacher-to-student ratio that allows for individual attention within a small class size.
- Full alignment with the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks, adapted to the learning styles of each student.
- Use of varied learning tools, including computers, SmartBoards, interactive video, text books, laboratory activities, distance learning courses, hands-on projects, photography and various mediums of art and drama.
- Updated facilities, including a science lab, newly renovated library, photo lab/darkroom, art studio and computer lab, as well as access to a state-of-the-art fitness center on the McLean grounds.
- Highly qualified, certified and experienced teachers.
- On-site counseling by qualified licensed counselors, social workers and psychologists.
- Clinical consultation from highly qualified McLean physicians.
- On-site nurse.
- Transitional assistance with all aspects of post high-school planning.
- Health and physical education activities, adapted as needed.
- Collaboration with students' home schools and ancillary service providers.
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Arlington School Students Have Said…
- "I came to the Arlington School because I wanted to learn. I have learned. The teachers are extremely dedicated and caring. If you show an interest, they will give as much knowledge and insight as they possess."
- "The Arlington School helps me out academically and emotionally. It's easy to get along with everyone here because the teachers, kids and clinical staff are great. I enjoy [my time at] this school."
- "The staff at the Arlington School is very supportive; they really care. You learn everything you need to know and have fun too."
An Arlington School Parent Has Said...
- "At Arlington, my son grew from a lonely, frightened, and unapproachable child who could not bear to be in school, to a young man with lasting friendships and confidence in himself, who takes pleasure in learning and delights in exploring the world."
Contact
Please direct admission inquiries to Arlington School Director Suzanne Loughlin, APRN, BC, at 617.855.2124 or sloughlin@partners.org.
About McLean Hospital
U.S. News & World Report ranked McLean Hospital first among all freestanding psychiatric hospitals. McLean Hospital is the largest psychiatric facility of Harvard Medical School, an affiliate of the Massachusetts General Hospital and a member of Partners HealthCare.
