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Ellensburg School District

Empower Learners, Inspire Growth

Learning Assistance Program (LAP)

Learning Assistance Program (LAP)

 


The Learning Assistance Program (LAP) is a state-funded program that provides additional support to help students meet academic standards in reading, writing, and math. LAP focuses on serving students who need extra help to succeed in school, with a strong emphasis on early reading support in grades K–4.

 

 

 

 

Students are identified for LAP services based on academic performance. This includes:

  • Classroom-based assessments
  • State and District tests

The program prioritizes students with the greatest academic need

Students in LAP may receive:

  • Small group or one-on-one instruction
     
  • Support with reading, writing, or math skills
     
  • Social-emotional and behavioral supports

 

The goal is to help students make meaningful progress toward grade-level standards

We monitor each student’s growth throughout the year using a variety of tools such as:

  • Reading fluency or comprehension assessments
  • Math skills progress checks
  • Classroom-based observations

Progress is tracked and reviewed regularly to ensure support is effective

Family engagement is a key part of LAP. We encourage parents and caregivers to:

  • Participate in school events and academic nights
     
  • Join school planning or advisory groups
     
  • Communicate regularly with teachers
     
  • Access resources provided by the school and district

If you have questions about how to get involved, please contact your child’s school

LAP is funded by the Washington State Legislature. Funds must be used to support students identified as needing academic help. A portion of LAP funds may also be used for "readiness to learn" services, such as partnerships with mental health providers or mentoring programs.

Beginning in the 2025–26 school year, all LAP services will align with the state’s Integrated Student Supports Protocol, which is focused on meeting students’ academic and non-academic needs through coordinated supports

  • Students are identified for LAP services based on academic performance. This includes:

    • Classroom-based assessments
    • State and District tests

    The program prioritizes students with the greatest academic need

  • Students in LAP may receive:

    • Small group or one-on-one instruction
       
    • Support with reading, writing, or math skills
       
    • Social-emotional and behavioral supports

     

    The goal is to help students make meaningful progress toward grade-level standards

  • We monitor each student’s growth throughout the year using a variety of tools such as:

    • Reading fluency or comprehension assessments
    • Math skills progress checks
    • Classroom-based observations

    Progress is tracked and reviewed regularly to ensure support is effective

  • Family engagement is a key part of LAP. We encourage parents and caregivers to:

    • Participate in school events and academic nights
       
    • Join school planning or advisory groups
       
    • Communicate regularly with teachers
       
    • Access resources provided by the school and district

    If you have questions about how to get involved, please contact your child’s school

  • LAP is funded by the Washington State Legislature. Funds must be used to support students identified as needing academic help. A portion of LAP funds may also be used for "readiness to learn" services, such as partnerships with mental health providers or mentoring programs.

    Beginning in the 2025–26 school year, all LAP services will align with the state’s Integrated Student Supports Protocol, which is focused on meeting students’ academic and non-academic needs through coordinated supports

If you have questions about LAP in the Ellensburg School District, please contact:

  • Director of Student Supports
    Rhonda Schmidt student.supports@esd401.org 509-925-8011