Learning Services and Tiered Student Support at JCDSRI:
At JCDSRI, we believe that every child is capable of success and deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.
We proudly serve a wide range of learners, including students who benefit from additional academic challenges, those who need targeted support, and students with diagnosed learning differences, 504 Plans, or Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Our inclusive and collaborative approach, grounded in the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), ensures that every child can access the tools, strategies, and environments they need to flourish.
A Tiered System of Support
Our work is guided by a Tiered Student Support System, which provides layered supports that increase in intensity based on each student’s individual needs. This proactive model ensures early identification, timely intervention, and ongoing monitoring of progress to help each student reach their fullest potential.
Tier 1: Classroom Supports
All students benefit from high-quality, differentiated classroom instruction rooted in UDL and Positive Discipline practices. Teachers use flexible seating, visual supports, and restorative approaches to build inclusive learning communities. Instructional practices are responsive and evidence-based, including literacy instruction informed by the Orton-Gillingham approach. Our reading specialist also collaborates with teachers to provide targeted literacy support within the classroom setting.
Tier 2: Targeted Interventions
When a student benefits from additional short-term support, we provide small group or individualized interventions. These may include specialized reading or math instruction with our learning specialists or reading specialist, structured check-ins with a trusted adult, visual schedules, or individualized behavior supports. Progress is closely monitored over several weeks, and strategies are adjusted as needed through collaboration among teachers, specialists, and families.
Tier 3: Intensive Supports
Some students benefit from more comprehensive, individualized support. This may include a formal review by our Educational Leadership Team, additional assessments, or the development of a 504 Plan or IEP. We partner with public school providers to coordinate services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, counseling, and academic intervention. We also collaborate with Catapult Learning, which provides additional academic tutoring and skill-based support to meet each child’s specific needs.
Student Education and Behavior Plans
When a child benefits from additional structure or individualized strategies, we develop a Student Education Plan (SEP) or Student Behavior Plan (SBP).
- SEPs outline specific accommodations, goals, and instructional strategies that ensure equitable access to learning.
- SBPs are designed to promote positive behaviors, self-regulation, and social-emotional growth through clear expectations, consistency, and collaboration between home and school.
Both plans are reviewed regularly to reflect each child’s progress, growth, and evolving needs.
Collaborative Partnerships
Our Educational Leadership Team, which includes the Principal, Head of School, Director of Yahadut (Judaic Studies), School Social Worker, and Director of Early Childhood and Special Education, meets regularly to review student progress and ensure that all support strategies are effective and aligned with each child’s goals. We also work in partnership with organizations such as Providence Public Schools and Catapult Learning to extend specialized services and resources to our students.
Partnering with Families
Families are our most important partners in supporting student success. We believe that strong communication and shared understanding between home and school lead to the best outcomes for children. We meet with parents to discuss observations, design plans, and celebrate growth, all through a strengths-based lens that honors each child’s unique gifts and potential.
Parents who are interested in exploring whether their child may qualify for public school services (such as an IEP or 504 Plan) can learn more about the referral and evaluation process for students in independent schools.