Frequently Asked Questions

A: We have high-quality staff who have extensive experience in working with students with autism spectrum disorder, developmental disabilities, behavior challenges, and/or unique learning needs. We have small classroom sizes and use tailored techniques and specialized academics to meet the needs of each student. In addition to this, each classroom has an assigned Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) to provide additional support and consultation on an ongoing basis.  

A: No, Summa Academy is a non-public school. A non-public school, unlike a private school, is certified by the California Department of Education to serve districts in the State of California. We work directly with districts for student referrals. 

A: We strive to serve all students who need additional support. However, unless students are placed at Summa Academy privately which requires parents to pay the associated fees, admission is contingent upon acceptance by the Summa Academy Team. This entails a comprehensive records review and a student trial day/observation at Summa Academy. Once the Summa Academy team recommends placement, an IEP will be held with all team members in which Summa Academy is part of the offer of FAPE (Free and Appropriate Public Education).  

Summa Academy has a tuition rate for daily attendance and any required services. Please contact Neena.Bhathal@summa-academy.com for specific pricing information. 

A. If you do not have a Nonpublic School placement on your child’s IEP, you can review this FAQ, watch the virtual tour video(s) and discuss the placement process with your school district representative. At this time, we are only offering tours and trial days for students who have a Nonpublic School placement or a referral from the school district. If you are interested in ONLY private pay, you may contact Neena.Bhathal@summa-academy.com. 

A: Summa Academy is certified by the California Department of Education to serve students ages 5-14. 

A: Summa Academy specializes in educating and treating individuals with autism spectrum disorder, developmental disabilities, severe challenging behavior, and/or specific learning disabilities. We have continuous wrap-around support and our BCBAs work directly with our teachers and RBTs (Registered Behavioral Technicians) to support students using evidence-based practices.  

A: Summa Academy’s program ratio is 3 students to 1 teacher. However, many students have unique needs that require more intensive support, so we offer 2:1 and 1:1 ratios based on each student’s IEP service and unique needs. 

A: Summa Academy’s value of Student’s First is evident throughout the entire school. We bring joy into our work and focus on creating and maintaining a safe, inviting, therapeutic, and high-quality environment for our students. We incorporate technology throughout the day in the classrooms using iPads, chrome books, laptops, and AAC devices. All the students and families feel welcome and safe, and we encourage ongoing collaboration and communication.  

A: Summa Academy uses the following curriculum to support students with academics and functional skills. Each teacher uses a personalized approach to support students in meeting their IEP goals.  

• N2Y Unique Learning System 
• Multisensory Reading Instruction 
• Touch Math  
• Wonders Math & ELA   
• Eureka Math 
• Handwriting Without Tears 
• Visualizing and Verbalizing   
• IXL Math Intervention 
• STAR  
• SIPPS Reading Intervention 

A: In addition to Specialized Academic Instruction and behavior plans, Summa Academy offers speech and language therapy, augmentative and alternative communication services, occupational therapy, and adaptive physical education services. 

A: Summa Academy values open communication with parents, districts, and other professionals in the field. We use Seesaw as our platform for communication. This platform allows each teacher to provide student videos, pictures, and notes to parents. Parents can also send messages to staff members. In addition to this, some teachers may use the student binders as a communication log.  

A: Each teacher uses a projector for certain academic lessons. In addition to this, students have access to Chrome books, iPads, and AAC devices which are used throughout the school day to support academics, intervention, and communication skills.  

A: Nurses and medical providers are consulted on an as-needed basis. 

A: Currently, school districts work directly with families to provide private transportation services or a school bus to and from Summa Academy. Transportation services are typically discussed at the IEP meeting.  

A: The Elementary campus at Pleasanton has 6 classrooms, and the Livermore Middle School campus has 3 classrooms. Each classroom currently has 6-8 students.