Student Support Services FAQs

 

What are Student Support Services at Walden School?

Student Support Services are designed to help each student reach their full potential through individualized academic support, intervention strategies, and collaboration with teachers and families.

Who qualifies for Student Support Services?

Students with identified learning differences, those performing below benchmarks, or those recommended through teacher observation and assessment may qualify for services.

What types of support are offered?

Walden provides:

  • Literacy and math intervention

  • Executive functioning support

  • Individual and small group instruction

  • Social-emotional support and counseling resources

What is the difference between Lower School and Upper School support?

  • Grades K–6: Focus on literacy and math intervention, often beginning with classroom-based support and progressing to small group or individualized instruction.

  • Grades 7–12: Support is offered through the Student Success Center, including academic intervention and executive functioning coaching.

How are students identified for support services?

Students are identified through:

  • Academic assessments

  • Teacher observations and referrals

  • Parent feedback

  • Standardized data (e.g., MAP, PSAT, diagnostics)

What is the referral process?

Typically:

  1. A teacher identifies an area of concern

  2. Classroom interventions are implemented

  3. If needed, further evaluation or observation occurs

  4. A Student Support Plan (SSP) may be created with family collaboration

What is a Student Support Plan (SSP)?

An SSP is an individualized plan that outlines specific learning goals, accommodations, and strategies tailored to a student’s needs. Families and educators work together to monitor progress and adjust goals.

How are families involved in the process?

Families are active partners in developing and monitoring support plans. They are notified of interventions and collaborate with teachers and specialists throughout the process.

Are support services included in tuition?

Some services (such as early literacy support in younger grades and general classroom supports) are included, while additional intervention services may have associated fees depending on frequency and level of support.

What if my child does not qualify for formal support services?

All students benefit from:

  • Research-based classroom instruction

  • Advisory programs

  • Study halls (Grades 6–12)

  • Executive functioning and social-emotional support integrated into the curriculum

Is counseling available for students?

Yes. Walden partners with outside providers (such as Creative Family Counseling) to offer school-facilitated mental health services and support students’ social-emotional well-being.

What skills do students develop through support services?

Students build:

  • Executive functioning (time management, organization)

  • Self-advocacy and accountability

  • Academic confidence

  • Emotional regulation and problem-solving skills