UPPER SCHOOL LEARNING SUPPORT

The Lab offers academic coaching to students who need support with time management, organization, study and test-taking strategies, test anxiety, and more. Sessions are based on student needs and can include short-term interventions as well as long-term work. 

Because LCDS is an independent school, the school does not write or follow Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) or 504 plans, which are public school documents. However, for students with documented needs, the Learning Specialist creates an Individualized Learning Plan (ILP) or Individualized Support Plan (ISP) designed to provide teachers with an overview of strengths, challenges, strategies, and accommodations. ILP/ISPs are crafted to support students without altering the curriculum or grading policies. The US Learning Specialist also consults with parents, teachers, advisors, and administration so student needs can be addressed holistically. The goal of the Lab is to support students in becoming confident, independent, and efficient learners with strong self-advocacy skills.

There are no formal requirements to utilize the Lab for academic support. Students with ILP/ISPs may be scheduled in the Lab during a study hall block. All Upper School students may access the Lab during Office Hours. 

Rachel Schmalhofer - Director of Learning Services and US Learning Specialist

I have been working in education since 1996 and joined the LCDS team in 2011. I have a BA in English and Secondary Education from Simmons College and an MS in Special Education from George Washington University. I grew up in Washington, D.C., and moved to Lancaster in 2002, after I got married.  I live in Mount Gretna with my husband, 2 children, and 2 cats. I love what I do - nothing is more rewarding than helping students along their journey to becoming the best version of themselves!