News

Because we believe in nurturing the “whole child” and value the uniqueness of each student, Springmont has developed a team approach to supporting individual student success. Our Student Success Support Team (SSST) was established to facilitate children’s social, emotional, developmental, and academic success. 

Chaired by Plus Teacher & Coordinator Heather South (left) and School Counselor Ann Van Buskirk (right), teams also typically include a Division Head, your child’s Teacher, and parents/caregivers. Parents may also request that community providers (OT, SLP, psychologist, therapist) join SSST meetings. The team identifies strengths and needs and then develops a comprehensive plan that supports success. Plans may include preparing the learning environment differently, adding learning and/or counseling support, involving the student in problem-solving, or supporting the family in different ways. The SSST team also reviews external information (such as psychological evaluations and OT or SLP reports) and, when appropriate, develops a Learning Plan for in-house use to provide formalized, evidence-based intervention. In addition, the SSST provides faculty and staff with opportunities for multidisciplinary consultations to support their classroom practice.

Here is what some participants have shared about the process.

• “Our family is truly grateful for the support and guidance from the Student Support and Success team. Their understanding and dedication have complemented the wonderful Montessori education that our children receive, fostering an environment where their unique needs and potential are recognized and celebrated.”
• “I was a little apprehensive about so many people coming together. I found the meeting to be incredibly helpful and supportive. Thank you all for taking the time to come together on behalf of our child. We left feeling supported and grateful that our child is in a school that takes time to recognize and support his individual needs.”
• “SSST is amazing. It helps me support the children in the way that they need. I rely on the SSST process to provide me with the tools to ensure the success of every child in my classroom.”

“The education of even a small child, therefore, does not aim at preparing him for school, but for life.”  - Maria Montessori