Student Support

Student support specialist working with two young students

Meeting the Learning Needs of Our Students

At Westside, we recognize that each student’s learning journey includes moments of triumph, steady progress, and occasional challenges. Our seven-person Student Support team—which includes two counselors, four learning support specialists, and a Director of Teaching and Learning—partners with students, families, and teachers to provide both academic and social-emotional support. By integrating SEL and academic guidance, we ensure every student has the tools, confidence, and encouragement to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Social-Emotional Learning Instruction

Social-emotional learning is central to the student experience at Westside School. It is woven into the curriculum and all school programs. Students develop skills such as self-awareness, empathy, conflict resolution, and a growth mindset through a spiraling curriculum.  Westside’s SEL program also prioritizes cultural diversity, encouraging self-reflection and social awareness in an inclusive school. This approach fosters a compassionate community rooted in joy and belonging, preparing students for academic success and responsible citizenship.

At Westside School, we believe that SEL instruction is most effective when it:

  • Explicitly teaches scaffolded skills with time for reflection and practice.
  • Connects individual and collective student experiences and identities.
  • Uses common approaches, language, and intentional programming. 
  • Teaches and models positive relationships with empathy and compassion.  
  • Encourages students to engage in learning as their authentic selves.

Academic & Learning Support

Westside’s Academic and Learning Support team provides targeted support to help students meet their individual learning needs. Through small-group instruction, differentiated lessons, and strategies to address attention or executive functioning challenges, students receive guidance in areas of difficulty and enrichment in areas of strength. The team works closely with students, families, and teachers to ensure that each child can overcome obstacles, build confidence, and continue making progress at their own pace. This combination of academic and SEL support ensures that every student can grow, succeed, and thrive.

 

 

Counseling and SEL Blog Posts

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