#United States #San Jose #Almaden Country Day School #Orton-Gillingham Academy #Learning Center

The Learning Center Achieves Orton-Gillingham Academy Accreditation

Almaden Country Day School (ACDS) recently made headlines with the announcement that its Learning Center (TLC) has received accreditation from the esteemed Orton-Gillingham Academy (OGA), effective May 12, 2026. This transformative milestone not only reinforces TLC's dedication to delivering top-notch education for students facing language-based learning challenges, particularly dyslexia, but also designates it as the sole accredited program west of Kansas and one of only twenty such programs across the United States.

A Rigorous Review Process

The OGA accreditation is no small feat; it stems from a comprehensive three-year review, which underscores the center's commitment to high-quality instructional practices. This accreditation affirms that TLC meets stringent criteria in areas such as educator preparation, curriculum implementation, professional development, and organizational support.

Cecilia Robb, Head of TLC, emphasized the significance of this achievement, stating, "Pursuing this accreditation reflects our commitment to ensuring students receive instruction grounded in proven, research-based practices. Earning accreditation from the Orton-Gillingham Academy validates the quality of our work and provides families with confidence that their children are receiving exceptional support."

Access to Professional Development

One of the keys to maintaining instructional excellence is access to specialized professional development opportunities exclusively available to accredited programs. Being part of this accredited network allows TLC faculty to enhance their expertise continually, ensuring that they are equipped with the latest educational strategies to support their students effectively.

The Learning Center caters specifically to students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences while also integrating them into the broader Almaden Country Day School community. This unique approach ensures that specialized instruction does not compromise students' participation in the school’s rigorous academic and enriching extracurricular activities.

Dr. Olaf Jorgenson, Head of School, highlighted the innovative balance offered at ACDS. He noted, "Families no longer need to choose between specialized learning support and a comprehensive independent school experience. Students at ACDS can receive accredited Orton-Gillingham instruction while remaining fully integrated in an extensive enrichment and elective program alongside their peers."

A Welcoming Environment for Growth

During the accreditation site visit, evaluators from the OGA praised the school's culture, noting the exceptional support shown by leadership and faculty for The Learning Center's mission. The evaluators referred to the strong and welcoming atmosphere that helps students engage and feel eager to learn. Classrooms were described as nurturing environments that promote both emotional well-being and academic growth, which are crucial for students facing learning challenges.

Accreditation by the Orton-Gillingham Academy is initially valid for three years, with possibilities for extensions up to five years upon renewal. This structured system ensures that TLC continues to meet the evolving educational needs of its students.

Fulfilling a Purpose in Education

Founded with the ideology that every child should have the chance to become a confident learner and reader, The Learning Center aims to provide specialized support for students with language-based learning differences. This mission aligns with the larger vision of Almaden Country Day School, an independent institution serving students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade in San Jose, California. By focusing on engaging academic practices and individualized learning, ACDS helps children unearth their potential and become active, informed citizens.

In summary, TLC's recent accreditation not only marks a significant achievement for the institution but also reflects a broader commitment within contemporary education to recognize and support diverse learning needs. The recognition underscores the importance of specialized instructional methods and the profound impact they can have on students facing language-based learning differences like dyslexia. As the only accredited program of its kind west of Kansas, The Learning Center stands as a beacon of quality education for those who require it most, paving the way for more inclusive and effective learning environments in the future.