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www.FredericksburgParent.NET 11 Join us for the live conversation on Sponsored Material Who is a good fit for the Marshall School? The school's smaller environment and customized learning programs are good for all children and have been found to be particularly help- ful for children diagnosed with ADHD, dyslexia, auditory process- ing disorders, learning disabilities, and executive function disorders. Creative, gifted, and struggling learners benefit from the school's teaching strategies, low student- teacher ratios, and individualized approach. While the school is spe- cially equipped to help students with brain processing and executive functioning struggles, it is not a fit for students with behavioral or emotional disorders. Parents who are interested in learning more can call the school at 540-412-0992 to talk about whether their child may be a good match. The next step would be to come in for an evaluation of to determine how the child pro- cesses information as well as their academic levels. This evaluation provides the information to craft a learning program that will serve their needs. • Students learn at the pace their brains are ready for; not the pace that a standardized test dictates. The Marshall School meets students where they are and creates tailored instruction to help them master concepts before moving them through the curriculum. For example, because a child is behind in math skills in sixth grade, doesn't mean they're "bad at math." Giving them the extra time they need to develop computational skills can help them move along. The Marshall School has seen students make multiple grade levels' worth of progress in a single year with this approach. • The social-emotional connection is part of the school day. Community is at the center of everything at the school. This has been an important part of the Marshall School's culture from the beginning. Students feel known, valued, and accepted for who they are. Daily check-ins and a small environment where educators know all children by name ensure that mental health is a priority. • School is a safe place to grow. Growth requires getting out of your comfort zone, and students are routinely reminded that, "We can do hard things." They are encouraged to take ownership of their struggles, all with the support of a positive and encouraging faculty and peer group. • Students are honored for their academic achievements AND for their gifts, talents and personalities. From musicality to empathy, the Marshall School's signature awards ceremony celebrates the whole child. • Executive function and life skills are not afterthoughts. High school students receive practical, hands-on instruction in budgeting, buying insurance, filing taxes, as well as other skills such as checking oil, putting air in tires, sewing, cooking and meal planning. Students learn how to manage their time, as well as important organizational strategies that will help them study, take tests, apply for jobs or run a business after they leave school. Within a small, supportive learning community, the Marshall School offers programs that cater to students' individual needs and help them find their individual path. Here are some examples: • Music and performing arts. • Dual enrollment with Germanna Community College for high school students. • College counseling and help with college applications. • Career counseling to help students find apprenticeships and other opportunities to build skills for a fulfilling work life. • Instruction that helps students build executive-function skills. • Social-emotional learning that helps students build resilience and self-regulation. • Life skills lessons. • Daily check-ins ensure students feel valued and help them empathize with peers. • An overall school culture that emphasizes optimism, caring, and responsibility. What Does The Marshall School's Approach Look Like in a Typical School Day? Educa on Is Not One-Size-Fits All