Middle & Upper School Learning Support Center

The Learning Resource Center provides a comprehensive college-preparatory curriculum for bright students who learn differently. The academic environment provided is designed specifically for students of average or above-average intelligence who have a diagnosed learning disability documented by either a private or school psychologist. The program’s goal for each student is to provide personalized support necessary so that these intelligent but academically-challenged students can compete in the mainstream program and be adequately prepared for college upon graduation. It must be noted that this program is not designed for students whose achievement problems exist primarily because of below-average intelligence, poor motivation, or behavioral issues since such students are better served by other environments.

While it is not possible to offer extended, in-depth, one-to-one instruction and remediation within the framework of the school day, the faculty and staff is committed to help students grow as a whole person, to teach them to understand themselves, and to guide them in learning specific ways to enjoy their strengths and manage their weaknesses.

Students must provide a current psycho-educational evaluation with diagnosis of the specific learning disability written by a private or school psychologist, evidence of average or above-average intellectual capability, a mild degree of academic disability, grade level achievement scores in some areas, and evidence of motivation toward academic achievement. It is also noted that all recommendations from a psychological may not be implemented. A Learning Support Committee will individually review each application. Decisions of the committee are final.

In sixth through eighth grades, the program continues to emphasize self-knowledge as well as the acquisition of academic skills necessary for college preparatory work. The program also supports teachers implementing accommodations for these students in the mainstream classroom. DWS provides academic resources and support as the student continues to progress as an independent learner.

Tier 1 – Comprehensive Program

Students participating in the Comprehensive Program must have a current psychological report on file at DWS. Students are provided with testing accommodations which are recommended by their current psychological testing. Students will receive additional learning support services during their exploratory and/or tutorial class to help in their area of need daily. LSC will help structure study time, test taking strategies, study strategies, maintain communication with classroom teacher and provide weekly updates to parents. It is also noted that all recommendations from a psychological may not be implemented.

Tier 2 – Academic Program

Students participating in the Academic Program must have a current psychological report on file at DWS. Students are provided with testing accommodations which are recommended by their current psychological testing. Services include student utilizing the LSC once a week during tutorial along with weekly updates provided to parents. LSC will serve as a liaison between regular classroom, testing center and student. It is also noted that all recommendations from a psychological may not be implemented.

In ninth through twelfth grades, the Learning Support Center program supports students and teachers as they continue to collaborate so each student will be successful negotiating college preparatory work. DWS provides academic resources and support as the student continues to progress as an independent learner and steward of their accommodations.

Tier 1 – Academic Program

Students participating in the Academic Program must have a current psychological report on file at DWS. Students are provided with testing accommodations which are recommended by their current psychological testing. LSC will serve as a liaison between regular classroom, testing center and student. Students will meet with LSC once a week to discuss academic progress. LSC will work with College Board and ACT for accommodations with parent permission. It is also noted that all recommendations from a psychological may not be implemented.

Tier 2 – Academic Support

Students participating in the Academic Program must have a current psychological report on file at DWS. Students are provided with testing accommodations which are recommended by their current psychological testing. Services include paperwork needed for College Board and ACT accommodations with parent permission. It is also noted that all recommendations from a psychological may not be implemented.

Contact Jennifer Magness in the Middle and Upper School Learning Center.
jennifer.magness@deerfieldwindsor.com or (229) 435-1301