Supporting Diverse Learners:
Individualized Learning Support at The Smith School

The Smith School provides individualized support to all students in areas of academic need. This can include addressing gaps in learning, providing strategies to support learning differences, and developing effective study and time management methods. Additionally, our staff includes a Learning Specialist, an educator who provides an additional layer of support to students. The goal of the Learning Specialist is to ensure that students are progressing academically and successfully accessing the school’s curriculum.

Here are just some of the ways our Learning Specialist supports and advocates for students:

• Pushing into classes via one-on-one or small group work

• Collaborating with classroom teachers to support direct instruction and differentiation

• Working with both students and staff in areas including reading, writing, math, and executive functioning

• Holding weekly one-on-one sessions with a roster of students who benefit from extra support in classes or with general skills

• Conducting formal and informal assessments with students to identify specific learning needs and areas of growth

• Providing classroom teachers with professional development and resources to develop personalized learning plans based on student needs, including modifications and accommodations

• Communicating regularly with students, teachers, administration, and families about student progress and needs