This is an introductory study skills course focusing on teaching students about their learning style, time management, note taking, memory strategies, digital tools and self-advocacy. Students meet four days a week with a learning specialist who teaches them how to use strategies and resources to make their learning experience positive and effective.

In this course students revisit the foundational strategies with more emphasis on how they learn, what impacts their learning, and which strategies work best for their learning style. They review aspects that can impact learning and memory, such as exercise, sleep habits, diet, and stress. Students learn how to employ stress reduction techniques. In addition, they are introduced to advanced reading strategies, and memorization techniques. Continued support in utilizing research-based digital tools to help students organize their life and make learning more efficient and effective.

By junior year, students are focusing on the SAT, ACT and maintaining a grade point average to build a resume for their college application. This is notoriously the most challenging year for most high school students that often leaves a student feeling overwhelmed. This course is designed to continue the instruction in study skills with emphasis on independence, persistence, and self-advocacy. By building their awareness of their strengths, learning style, interests and goals we help the students recognize they can do more on their own.

The final year of high school is filled with anticipation and excitement about the future. In this course we explore learning theory and how understanding one’s individual learning style will empower her to become her own best advocate. Through collaborative discussion and individual meetings with the learning specialists, students learn how to access support and utilize strategies and resources to make their college experience successful.