At SJS, we recognize that every student is unique, with different strengths, challenges and preferred ways of learning. Long gone are the days of a one-size-fits-all approach to education.
That’s where the Learning Strategist team comes in. We play an essential role in supporting students, not just those who need support academically, but all students. We help them to improve their skills, stay organized and boost their confidence in school. Read on to learn more about our work at SJS, how we help students succeed, and to meet the team!
So, What Do Learning Strategists Do?
Learning Strategists support students to develop executive functioning skills and help them thrive in school. Such skills include better study habits, organization skills and strategies for understanding and retaining information. From breaking down tasks into manageable steps, to using memory aids and focus tools, we help students adopt approaches that suit the way they learn.
While we often work with students with diverse learning profiles, our support is available to all learners. Every student can benefit from developing personalized strategies to learn smarter, not harder.
Tailored Support
A key part of our work involves supporting students with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and Student Support Plans (SSPs).
Working with teachers and through academic assessment data, we identify learning styles, strengths and areas for growth. We then develop personalized goals and strategies that align with each student’s unique abilities. The aim is to ensure students receive the appropriate support to thrive in the general education classroom, promoting inclusion and maximizing learning potential through tailored interventions and collaboration with teachers.
Students Taking Control of their Learning
One of the biggest strengths of a Learning Strategist team is the ability to personalize our approach and work within a Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework.
Every student learns differently, so it’s not about giving everyone the same method and hoping it sticks. For students with learning differences, strategists might suggest assistive technologies like speech-to-text tools or audiobooks, but they also teach students how to take control of their own learning. They help students build skills like time management, prioritization and focus, all of which are essential for academic success.
Support is more than simply having the right tools for school work. We guide students in how to think about their learning. Through strengthening students’ Theory of Mind, we help students become more aware of their own thought processes, and teach them strategies for self-reflection and improvement—skills that will serve them well beyond school.
More Than Just Academics: Building Confidence
While academic growth is a core focus, Learning Strategists do more than just help students improve their grades—we help students believe in themselves.
Our aim is that students see that learning isn’t just about getting the right answer; it’s about growing, making mistakes and learning from them. We offer reassurance and practical advice to help students face obstacles with confidence. When students understand that success doesn’t happen overnight, they feel more motivated and less anxious about school. The goal is always to cultivate assertive and proud lifelong learners.
Working with Teachers and Parents
Learning doesn’t happen in isolation. That’s why we collaborate closely with teachers, parents and support staff to address each student’s specific needs.
For example, we help teachers develop classroom strategies to accommodate different learning styles, and work with parents to direct them towards the appropriate resources outside of school. This team approach ensures that students have a strong network behind them, guiding them through their educational journey.
Meet the Team
Our team is dedicated to ensuring that all students—regardles of background or learning profile—have the tools, strategies and support they need to thrive now and into the future as confident lifelong learners. In a world where every student’s needs are different, learning strategists make sure that everyone has the support they need to reach their potential.
- Kristin Bond, Learning Strategist Grade 6–8
- Jaclyn Chow, Literacy Curriculum Lead and Learning Strategist Teacher Grade 4–5
- Cecilia Lau, PYP Learning Strategist Teacher Grade 1-2
- Rebecca Maxwell, PYP French and Learning Strategist Teacher Grade 3
- Madisin Mclauchlan, Learning Strategies Associate
- Pamela Mendivil Sanchez, Learning Strategies Associate
- RóisÃn O’Connell, PYP Learning Strategist Teacher Kindergarten
- Jessica Robb, Learning Strategist Grade 9–12
- Rachel Shedletzky, PYP Learning Strategist Associate
On November 5 our team connected with parents across the school to share more about our work and how we support students. Click here to view the slides from the presentation. Let’s work together to ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed.
