SFS is committed to providing an equitable learning environment that supports every student as a whole person. With emotional wellbeing at the heart of our approach, teachers and staff create an academically rich, collaborative classroom where learners discover their individual strengths, appreciate the perspectives of others, and develop the confidence to make a positive impact.
Learning Services
Our team of learning specialists knows each of our students as learners and helps guide our curriculum. They meet regularly with kindergarten to 8th grade students -- in individual and small group pullout sessions, classroom assistance, and whole group lessons on student learning. Learning specialists meet weekly with head teachers and grade-level teams to address individual student needs, develop modifications and accommodations, and design differentiated curriculum and instruction to meet a variety of needs.
Learning specialists communicate regularly with parenting adults to provide resources and support specific to the strengths and needs of the child. When needed, learning specialists may provide referrals for outside support such as psychoeducational testing, tutoring, speech and language therapists, and occupational therapists.
In 2nd-4th grade, students participate in a program called All Kinds of Minds. In developmentally appropriate lessons, students learn some of the basics of neuroscience, are introduced to the idea of multiple types of intelligence and neurodiversity, and learn about specific learning differences like dyslexia and dysgraphia, as well as types of neurodivergence like ADHD and autism. The goal of the program is to help students learn how to be an advocate and ally for themselves and others.
The 5th-8th grade learning specialist supports the transition from 5th to 6th grade. In middle school, students receive most academic support within their math, humanities, and science classes. The learning specialist works closely with the school counselor as part of the student support team. In 6th grade, students take a weekly class which focuses on study skills and social emotional learning (SEL). Other areas of focus in middle school include supporting executive functioning and self advocacy to help prepare for the transition to high school.
Counseling
Our counselors guide our social emotional learning (SEL) curriculum and meet with teaching teams regularly. They are trusted community
members on whom our students and parenting adults can rely in times of challenge.
Preschool to 4th grade students are supported through the development of strong teacher-student relationships, daily class meetings, and student problem-solving conferences. Kindergarten to
4th grade students are further supported by our educational therapist who provides individual and group counseling in support of emotional development and growth. In collaboration with
classroom teachers and the division head, the educational therapist can assist families with outside referrals.
The counselor supports the personal and social development of 5th-8th grade students and provides guidance to families and school staff to assist students in their wellbeing and success. The
counselor meets with individuals or groups of students as needed and may discuss outside therapy services with students and/or their parenting adults. The counselor has an established
curriculum including topics such as peer pressure and conflict, internet safety, stress and anxiety, substance abuse and puberty, taught in designated Social Emotional Learning classes. The
counselor also addresses and helps students to process issues that arise, such as peer conflict, online behaviors, and world events.
School Health Practitioner
Our health practitioner plays a vital role in supporting the well-being of our community. As a trusted wellness resource, the health practioner provides professional care with compassion, promotes healthy habits, and helps students navigate both physical and emotional challenges. Beyond addressing immediate medical needs, the health practitioner collaborates with faculty, families, and counselors to foster a safe, informed, and supportive environment where every student can thrive. The health practitioner is a key partner in our broader commitment to student wellness, resilience, and lifelong health.