- “Saint Agnes has done a terrific job accommodating my son’s special needs. The resource director and his teachers work with our family, attend additional meetings, and provide the tools and support he needs to be successful. He is accepted for who he is.”
– Saint Agnes parent
Resource Program
Saint Agnes has a Resource Program led by a full-time resource director, Dr. Teri Eichner, who is available to confer with teachers, parents, and students in academic matters.
The resource program offers:
- individual and small-group academic remediation and enrichment
- in-classroom instructional assistance and accommodations
- standardized testing accommodations
- referrals to public school and private academic evaluators, when necessary
Academic instruction at Saint Agnes is presented in all learning modalities, enabling students with various learning styles and ranges of academic capabilities to achieve success and to excel in the classroom. Teachers use Interwrite Schoolpads, Powerpoint, LCD projectors, remote audience response systems, and direct instruction to provide multiple learning opportunities for the students. Classroom teachers employ differentiated learning strategies including direct instruction, flexible grouping, guided reading groups, cooperative learning centers, word study, music, audio-visual aids, graphing, audio books, science laboratory experiments and hands-on math activities utilizing physical and virtual manipulatives. Teachers work in instructional teams which encourages cross-curricular instruction.
Special technological resources available to students include the use of Alpha Smarts, Kidspiration and Inspiration writing software programs, and “Dragon Naturally Speaking” voice-activated software. Some students receive equipment such as pencil grips, colored reading overlays, visual timers, chair (sensory balance) cushions and extra textbooks to use at home. Teachers are aware of the special needs of the students and individual attention is provided to support student achievement.
Saint Agnes works diligently with Arlington County to ensure that students receive the extra attention and care they need to be successful. Parents, teachers, and the resource director meet frequently with Arlington County resource personnel to develop and follow through on individualized education plans, giving each student access to all available resources.
