Hale Learning Center

Studying at Hale Learning Center

The Hale Learning Center (HLC) provides additional support to students who face academic challenges, often rooted to language skill deficits. To that end, Thayer Academy designs, implements, and coordinates approaches to learning and teaching that offer students the best chance of success in meeting the demands of a rigorous academic program.

 

Hale Learning Center Directors
Upper School:
Erica Dunne P '27
781.664.2202
edunne@thayer.org
Middle School:
Stephen Moran
781.664.2219
smoran@thayer.org

 

The Hale Center’s trained professional staff analyzes student learning profiles, works directly with students and their parents, recommends practical teaching approaches to faculty, assists in teacher training to meet student needs, supports the admission selection process, and – as appropriate – consults with the Academy’s educational psychologist to identify students requiring support.

Each Division, Middle and Upper School, has its own age-appropriate Hale Learning Center space and program under the direct supervision of an Academic Support Coordinator. The Hale Learning Center Director ensures the effectiveness of the program over the entire span of grades 5 to 12.

Direct Student Support

Partnership with Parents

The staff in the HLC coordinates and maintains dialogue with parents about psycho-educational evaluations and recommendations, existing IEPs, and the academic status of students. They also offer a parent education program and information sessions related to learning styles, attention difficulties, dyslexia, and other language-based challenges. Members of the HLC staff can create a Student/Parent Tool-kit, an online resource of supports for students and their parents.

Faculty Support & Professional Development

HLC staff members keep in touch with the most up-to-date methodologies and research through course work and attendance at workshops and seminars. The also identify opportunities for other faculty members to enrich their understanding of various learning differences and enhance their teaching approaches.

Thayer Academy Special Education Intern

This internship is designed to provide a beginning educator who is pursu­ing a master’s degree in special education the opportunity to gain additional experience from classroom and specialist teachers. The intern works with experienced teachers, observes classes, assists with individual and group projects. He or she also provides direct student support on a 1:1 basis and in small groups.

Additional Support Staff & Structures

Both the Middle and Upper Schools retain staff to specifically support students as they develop strong study skills. In both divisions, the Deans are responsible for identifying and tracking students who require academic support. In addition, the Hale Center staff members consult with outside tutors, and, when needed, work with parents to find tutors. The Upper School also has a specially designed English program for students requiring extra support as a result of language deficits.