The Learning Resource Specialist in Middle School
As the Learning Resource Specialist (LRS), I am a member of your daughter's Middle School support team and serve as a resource for all students, parents, and faculty. My work with students largely focuses on the "how we come to know it," rather than the "what we need to know." I assist students, individually or in small group settings, with developing solid study habits, managing and prioritizing academic responsibilities, and organizing time, tasks, and materials. These skills serve as the foundation for learning, and will benefit your daughter as she works to become a more effective, efficient, and successful student. Students in Middle School are encouraged to actively think about how they learn best, and in the process, gain confidence and increased independence.
LRS Student Support in Action:
- Explore effective ways to organize lockers, backpacks, binders, etc.
- Preview and plan for smoother transitions between classes
- Prep for teacher meetings/ facilitate teacher-student meetings
- Utilize "tools" for management of academic/extra-curricular activities
- Introduce effective study strategies for improved test-prep and test-taking
- Tools For Learning (TFL) class for all seventh grade students
- Ensure appropriate accommodations for students with educational testing on file
LRS Parent Support in Action:
- Maintain communication between home and school
- Assist with scheduling and planning of recommended educational testing
- Help with planning/implementing optimal learning environment/support at home
- Consult with testers/evaluators as necessary on behalf of students
LRS Faculty Support in Action:
- Progress Meetings to discuss individual student needs/concerns
- Classroom observations with feedback
- Learning Resource sessions to share research and discuss pedagogy
- Interpretation of psycho-educational testing and follow through
- Development of student Individual Learning Profile (ILP)
- Dissemination of appropriate student information
The LRS office is a place where all students are welcome and encouraged to visit whenever assistance is needed. I maintain an open-door policy and work to convey a friendly, supportive environment where students feel safe taking risks, meeting new challenges, and creatively exploring novel ideas. Open communication and candid conversations with you will help maintain that essential link between home and school. I welcome your phone calls, emails, and office visits, and look forward to working with you and your daughter as she moves through her Middle School years.
Sincerely,
Gail Whitley
Middle School Learning Resource Specialist
301-365-6074