Upper School

The Academic Resource Center (ARC) is open to all students (free of charge). Students may be referred for ARC help by their advisor or teacher, or may set up appointments or drop by for assistance on their own initiative. The ARC works to optimize the individual learning experience by providing the following supports and programs:

• Coordination of individual accommodations for students with educational testing: The Academic Resource Coordinator analyzes educational testing reports, determines supports appropriate at GFS, and oversees formal accommodation plans for students with documented learning differences.
   
• Teacher support for differentiated instruction for support and enrichment: Through regular conversations and professional development programs, the ARC offers teachers techniques for differentiating in the classroom according individual learning profiles. The school is committed to helping each student maximize her potential, and the ARC assists classroom teachers working with students who are ready to tackle additional challenge as well as those whose who need greater support.

• An ARC Class which provides individualized study tools and a supportive setting for 9th grade students who have been recommended for additional structures and strategies as they transition to the demands of the Upper School curriculum: This non-credit class provides small group instruction in time management, organization, effective reading and note-taking, writing process, study habits, memory techniques, test and exam preparation, and stress reduction.
   
• Individual academic support on a scheduled or ad hoc basis for students who are experiencing challenges in meeting their academic goals. Work may include assistance with time management, study skills, organization, reading comprehension, writing assignments, research projects, college essays, and test preparation.
   
• Academic Mentor program: A peer tutoring program is also run out of the ARC. Upper School students have the opportunity to gain valuable internship experience by providing subject-specific academic reinforcement or homework help to with students in all three Divisions of the school.

Contact:

Katie Baughman, Chair of Academic Resources Dept., Upper School
Shannon Schmidt, Academic Resource Coordinator, Middle School
Christine Grant, Academic Resource Coordinator, Lower School

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