Royal Oak Schools is proud to announce the launch of RAVENS (Restoring Academic Vigor by Engaging Neurodivergent Students), a new, specialized K–8 center-based program designed to provide individualized, proactive assistance for students who benefit from a structured and highly supportive learning environment. The program will begin next school year and will be the first of its kind in Oakland County.
RAVENS represents a significant investment in serving students within our own community whose needs are best met through a smaller, intentionally designed setting. By creating this in-district program, Royal Oak Schools is expanding its capacity to support diverse learners while keeping students connected to their home district and community.
The program will operate in a dedicated space (previously the Addams Early Childhood Center) separate from Addams Elementary, with its own secured entrance and clearly defined structure. Building improvements will be made over the summer and in time for its launch in Fall 2026. The Special Education Department will also be located on-site, strengthening coordination and ensuring immediate access to support and resources.
Enrollment will remain intentionally small to ensure strong student-to-staff ratios, close supervision, and meaningful relationships. Placement will occur through the IEP (Individualized Education Program) process and professional team review to ensure the program is the right fit for each student. As students progress, the program will incorporate community-based instruction to help prepare them for high school and beyond.
RAVENS will bring expanded specialized staffing and expertise to the district with new hires, including certified special education teachers, trained paraprofessionals, behavioral support through a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and access to related service providers such as social work, occupational therapy, and physical therapy. These added professionals strengthen not only the program itself, but the district’s overall ability to serve students with diverse needs.
“This program reflects our commitment to meeting students where they are and building innovative pathways that allow them to thrive,” said Dr. Ericka Watson, Director of Special Education. “RAVENS enhances our ability to provide individualized support while maintaining safe, structured, and positive learning environments for all students.”