Criteria for Referral
Students are usually referred through school districts.  They have experienced extensive intervention for behavior and emotional problems and/or are unmotivated and unsuccessful in their present academic placement.  The REAL School provides an alternative option when the above situations are remaining unchanged and further intervention is required.
Referral to the REAL School requires:
  • a formal referral by a school district or state agency
  • interviews with parent(s), guardian and student
  • interviews with appropriate school and community workers
  • the review of records, assessments and other information
  • on acceptance, a trial 30 day placement and final review.
If you are considering The REAL School as a placement for a student, please feel free to invite one of our staff members to the referring IEP meeting.

Any school district, DHHS, or DOC may refer a student to The REAL School.  Our one-page referral sheet helps to create a streamlined process and minimizes wait-time for prospective students.  Print, fill out, and mail or fax the referral document to:

The REAL School
1 Mackworth Island
Falmouth, Maine 04105

or
(207) 781-6206 (fax)

Upon receipt of the referral, we will contact the student and family to set up a school tour and intake interview.  School personnel are welcome to visit also to be sure that our school is a good match for the student's needs.

Other student records (like IEP, transcripts, recent evaluations, etc.) must also be sent once the intake interview has been completed.

Students are usually able to attend classes on the following Monday.

REAL Lunch Program: New Team Focuses on Agriculture and Culinary Arts to Provide Healthier Lunches with Local Produce!