Student Support Services

The role of the Learning Specialist in each division is to support the teachers in helping them to serve all students, particularly those who might have difficulty in class for a variety of reasons. An important part of the support is helping teachers understand the nature of learning differences. In addition to directly working with students, the Learning Specialist is often are involved in teacher consultation, parent meetings, and coordination with community professionals.

The primary goal of the GDS Counseling Department is to provide programming and support for students that assist them in developing empathy, ethical problem solving skills, self-insight, strength of character and strong interpersonal / social skills. Each of the three divisions has a counselor and these counselors often work collaboratively with one another providing individual, group and classroom guidance lessons. The Counseling Department is also a resource to faculty, parents and administration. Short term assistance is provided with appropriate referrals to professionals in the community if needed.

The Student Support Services program is designed to provide support to all children who are admitted to Greensboro Day School. Although traditionally families have thought of support as solely focused on the student with learning challenges, the Student Support Services’ vision wants families to recognize that almost all students need support - some for learning difficulties, some for advancement, and some at both ends of the continuum. Enrichment opportunities are provided for students in all 3 divisions. A sample of enrichment opportunities is listed below. This list is not meant to be exhaustive.

The English as a Second Language Program (ESL) provides support to International Students in grades K-12 who have limited English proficiency. The ESL coordinator is available to meet individually with international students in all three divisions of the school. In addition, the ESL coordinator conducts small group instruction with Upper School students, and is available for consultation with teachers in all three divisions.

In addition to the numerous benefits of the ESL program for International Students, the ESL program benefits all students at GDS through the promotion of cultural diversity. International students enrich the educational experience through differing points of view. International students are involved in formal presentations, classroom discussions, and extracurricular activities.

Each faculty member at Greensboro Day School participates in yearly professional development programs. There are also several opportunities throughout the school year for parents to participate in engaging discussions and informative presentations by community professionals and Greensboro Day School faculty.