Learning Disabilities Orientation

Welcome to SSS at Taft College. This section includes information that will help you understand what a learning disability is and how eligibility for service is determined in the California Community College system. Included you will find information about the procedure to request an assessment and then the assessment process. Please read this information prior to your first appointment. Note any questions you have and bring them with you to the appointment. If you need this material presented in an alternative format, please make your request at the SSS office.

A Learning Disability is verified by a Learning Disability Specialist. It is estimated that between 6 and 10% of the general population have a learning disability that negatively impacts one’s opportunity to learn material to the level of their ability, and/or demonstrate what they know in a class. Attached you will find a handout which describes what a learning disability is like in detail. The general characteristics include:

• Average to above average intellectual ability
• Average achievement in an instructional or employment setting
• Significant processing deficits or problems
• Significant discrepancy or difference between ability and current achievement

Learning Disabilities Testing Procedure: The testing is provided as a service through SSS located in the SSS building. The procedure includes:

1. Every student begins with an initial appointment with a Learning Disabilities Specialist. Please bring any questions and paperwork that may be helpful during this appointment.
   
   If you have previously been tested for a disability, you may be immediately eligible for services with recent written documentation presented at your appointment. If you were in special education in previous schooling, you may be eligible for services. Our office needs a copy of your latest psychological evaluation. You may request this yourself from your last school, or you can complete a "Release of Information" form in our office and we will send for your records.
    
2. At your first appointment the specialist will discuss why you are requesting testing and answer any questions you have regarding the testing process and our services. At the end of this appointment the Learning Disabilities Specialist will make a recommendation on whether or not you should be tested.
    
3. The Learning Disabilities (LD) testing is run as a class. It is called Enhancement of Learning Styles (LRSK 51). You must enroll in this class after your initial appointment. All appointments to complete the assessment are done on a one-to-one basis.
   
   
4. LRSK 51 testing lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours. This is completed alone with the Learning Disabilities Specialist or a testing specialist during individual appointments.