Upper School Division News: Feb. 20, 2025

By Mr. Chris Ames, Upper School Division Head

Dear Winston Family,

Winter temperatures are returning with a vengeance this week but fortunately appear short-lived, as spring sports are swinging into gear.  Another reminder that change is always upon us - and on that note I’d like to pass on a bit of news that I’m very excited to announce.  

Our Lower and Middle School Divisions do a great job supporting students with Build, Take Flight and Jet programs, under the supervision of Dr. Sass and Chelsea Adams.  I have been hoping to add a bit more of this type of support into our Upper School offerings since my arrival, and now we are moving forward! I am pleased to announce that starting next fall, Lindsay Bock will transition from English instructor to full-time Learning Lab Coordinator.  Lindsay came to us from Shelton and holds a LDT (Licensed Dyslexia Therapist, a CALT (Certified Academic Language Therapist) and is a Certified-Structural Language and Dyslexia Specialist (C-SLDS).  We are also working on a Math Center component for the Learning Lab, utilizing our existing mathematics personnel from both Middle and Upper School.

The Learning Lab can be built into a weekly schedule for students who need a high level of support.  Others may only need to utilize it during a study hall for assistance with a specific assignment or project.  Some may find that it provides good, consistent reinforcement in reading, writing and math.  If you are interested in this component for your student please let me know.  We will limit the number of students per block as it is primarily a 1-1 environment.  

As part of our commitment to building good executive functioning skills, we will continue with the Freshman Seminar, introducing topics such as note-taking, test preparation, organization and study skills.  Ms. Bock will lead the Freshman Seminar each Wednesday during Academy time.  As sophomores, these students will be able to choose any of our Academy options for the remaining three years.  

Please let me know if you have any questions about this new program or would like more information.  We are working through the hiring process to fill the English I and II position that will be vacated by Ms. Bock and hope to announce our new community member soon.  

From the Upstairs,

Chris Ames