Learning Support

Engaging Dyslexic Learners in Grade Level Content

Wherever they are in their development as a reader, Middle School students with dyslexia need to grapple with big ideas and challenging content. Sterne offers intensive reading intervention through 8th grade in English Language Arts (ELA) classes tailored to grade level.

For students who have already received intervention but still need support in reading, we offer an ELA program called Directed Reading. While focused on intervention and developing lagging skills, our students also learn to use assistive technology to engage at a level consistent with their intellectual development.

Math Intervention

Grouping students based on instructional level ensures that they learn alongside others who need similar types of support. Whether that means smaller groups for intensive intervention, or taking a math class above grade level, our math classes are driven by the instructional needs of the students in them.

With an eye towards high school readiness, middle school students move through a standards based curriculum while cycling through previously learned skills on a daily basis through a program called Simple Solutions. This enables teachers to identify gaps in learning and address them.

Executive Function

Middle School students are developing the executive functioning skills they will need to take ownership of their learning experience. Executive Functioning support is integrated into the school day in two forms: external supports and student skill development.

Our homeroom period is a time when students organize materials and get a sense of what’s coming up in their schedule. Large assignments are thoughtfully chunked out into small steps, and then finished products are celebrated. Our online Portal provides a window into students' school work, allowing for further reinforcement at home.

Finally, we understand the impact that emotional regulation has on executive function, and we know that attention, memory, and the ability to concentrate all require some level of mindfulness. This work is built into every class.

Social Emotional Learning (SEL)

As a middle school, social emotional learning is at the heart of all our work. Our 6th, 7th, and 8th graders are learning about themselves and each other and developing a sense of identity. We emphasize each community member’s role in creating a safe and inclusive learning environment, and we celebrate the things that make us unique.

We address skills such as emotional literacy, stress management, relationship maintenance, and conflict resolution in dedicated SEL classes and whenever a teachable moment arises. With Spring comes our annual school-wide Puberty Education.