Josh, a 12 year old in the 6th grade, was failing his classes and acting out in the classroom. Josh's parents were concerned because he didn't have academic and behavioral problems in elementary school.

Josh was considered a good student in elementary school. In general, he was well-behaved and motivated. Now in middle school, Josh had to adjust to a new school and new students. Josh was labeled as inattentive, lazy, and uncaring by some of his teachers. Josh's parents had also been called in by the school due to reports of disruptive behavior. Josh's parents reported that they had to sit with him every night to help him complete his homework otherwise it would take him too long to finish. Josh was tested for attention issues and given medication; however, he stated that it made him feel “weird.”

Josh wanted school to be easier and fun without having to take his medication. He wanted to be able to make friends and get good grades. Josh also wanted homework to be easier and faster. Josh's parents knew he was a smart kid and wanted to understand why he was struggling in school and what could be done about it. They wanted to him to become an independent student who could succeed on his own.

Falcone Institute reviewed previous testing and conducted a learning assessment with Josh to determine that he had difficulty making sense of complex, abstract language. Josh's learning issue became evident as the academic material in middle school progressively became more challenging and abstract. Falcone Institute understood that Josh's learning issue would demonstrate as inattention and apathy in class since he was having difficulty following along and keeping up. Falcone Institute also discovered that Josh was being bullied at school, which contributed to his school anxiety and disruptive behaviors.

During a 9 month program, Josh learned and performed specific skills and methods for establishing and managing his emotional well-being. Josh learned how to take greater responsibility for his attitude and actions. Josh learned cognitive skills for improved abstract comprehension and expression, both in speaking and writing, at and above grade level. Josh's parents developed a better understanding of Josh's learning needs. They learned skills and methods for helping empower Josh as an independent learner at home.

Josh completed the 6th grade with all A's and B's. The school bullying stopped, and Josh was able to make and keep new friends. Josh is feeling good about himself and happy that he is no longer required to take his medication for attention. Josh is now able to accurately complete his school work on his own in a timely manner. Josh's parents understand him better and are pleased to see him happy and successful. Josh is currently enjoying the 7th grade and maintaining honor roll status.

Independent Success