History
  Clearway School was founded in 1975 by a group of 10 teachers who wanted to realize their dream of starting a school for children with learning disabilities that would be based on their collected experience and strongly held beliefs about the most effective ways to reach and teach students.  There are many aspects of the program structure established by the founders that remain intact today, including

• administration and governance by a group of Co-Directors
• small size and a nurturing, familial environment to support student growth and development
• a unique tutorial system designed to build self esteem, increase self awareness, and improve school functioning
• an elective program comprised of high interest, hands-on mini courses which builds on students’ abilities
• teacher ownership of the program through the Co-Director and tutorial systems

  Although the founding teachers have moved on, Clearway School remains dedicated to providing special education services to students aged nine to eighteen who have been diagnosed with language-based learning disabilities, nonverbal learning disabilities, dyslexia, or other similar special needs. 

• full access to the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks, taught in small, structured, supportive classrooms by a team of professionals including special educators, content area teachers, a speech and language pathologist, a vocational counselor, and a social worker
• a mentoring program in which each student meets weekly with an advisor to evaluate progress, discuss educational issues, and identify goals
• high interest electives including art, theater, computer applications and programming, wood shop, and physical education.  Many of these electives are community-based and take place in typical settings

   Clearway is committed to preparing our students for successful transition to less restrictive programs or post-secondary options.  To accomplish this, Clearway provides:

• An administrative specialist who provides wrap-around support services for transitioning students as they move back to public schools or other less restrictive settings.  This may include a period of shared programming involving part time attendance at Clearway School.

A comprehensive post-graduate/vocational program, including vocational exploration classes, a work-study program, and a transition planning post-graduate class for seniors, all of which focus on identifying and developing the skills and information necessary to transition from Clearway to college, a job, or other post graduate option.

Admissions
     Clearway School admits students with language-based learning disabilities, nonverbal learning disabilities, dyslexia, and other similar special needs.  When a student is referred to Clearway School, the Educational Administrator reviews all available information to determine if the applicant is appropriate for further consideration.
      If the applicant seems appropriate, the parent/guardian and public school personnel are invited to visit the school and observe the program.
      The next step is the admission interview.  The Educational Administrator meets with the student and his/her parents to discuss needs and to answer questions.
      Before making a final recommendation, the student is invited to participate in an entire day of classes.  The visiting day offers the student the opportunity to experience a typical day at Clearway School and allows our staff to get to know the student in a classroom environment.
     Clearway School has a policy of rolling admissions and students can be enrolled at any time during the school year.

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