Upper Campus Learning Support Center

The Deerfield-Windsor School Academic Support Center (ASC) provides individualized support and accommodations for students who may need additional assistance to thrive in our college-preparatory environment. The program is designed for students of average to above-average ability who have a documented learning difference or disability identified through educational or psychological evaluations.

Working in partnership with students, families and teachers, the ASC helps students develop the skills, strategies and confidence needed to achieve academic success while fully participating in the life of the school. Our goal is to empower students to become independent learners who are prepared to meet the expectations of college and beyond.

Mission

The mission of the Academic Support Center is to provide appropriate support and accommodations for students with diverse learning needs, enabling them to maximize their strengths and reach their full potential academically, socially and emotionally.

Students seeking support through the Academic Support Center must provide a current psychoeducational evaluation completed by a licensed private or school psychologist. Qualifying diagnoses may include, but are not limited to, autism spectrum disorder, specific learning disabilities in reading or mathematics, anxiety disorders and ADHD.

Evaluations should demonstrate average to above-average intellectual ability, evidence of academic achievement at grade level in some areas, and the motivation and potential to succeed in a college-preparatory environment.

Support and accommodations are individualized to meet each student's needs. While the Academic Support Center works closely with students and teachers to provide appropriate accommodations, DWS does not offer co-teaching services, one-on-one classroom aides, or direct instruction in a resource classroom setting. Accommodation plans are developed based on the student's documented needs and the services available within the school's educational program. As a result, not all recommendations included in a psychoeducational evaluation may be implemented.

Middle School Support (Grades 6–8)

In Middle School, the Academic Support Center focuses on helping students develop self-awareness, executive functioning skills, social skills and the academic strategies necessary for success in a college-preparatory environment. Students are encouraged to become independent learners who understand their strengths, advocate for their needs and take increasing responsibility for their academic growth.

The ASC works closely with students to provide appropriate support and accommodations while also partnering with teachers to ensure those accommodations are effectively implemented in the classroom. Through this collaborative approach, students gain the tools, confidence and skills needed to thrive both academically and personally.

Upper School Support (Grades 9–12)

In Upper School, the Academic Support Center partners with students and teachers to help students successfully navigate the rigors of a college-preparatory curriculum. As students mature, the focus shifts toward fostering independence, self-advocacy and the development of skills that will support success in college and beyond.

The ASC provides academic resources, guidance, and accommodations while encouraging students to take an active role in understanding and communicating their learning needs. In addition, the ASC Director works closely with students and families to ensure that all required documentation is completed for accommodations on standardized assessments, including the ACT, SAT and Advanced Placement (AP) exams.

For more information about the Academic Support Center or to discuss your student's individual needs, please contact Marti Yelverton at marti.yelverton@deerfieldwindsor.com.