A student may face individual challenges to learning unrelated to intelligence. These challenges can take the form of problems with approach and organization, difficulties with attention, learning style differences, or discrete learning disabilities. Early identification of learning challenges and appropriate intervention are important to enhancing the opportunity for academic success for every student at Groton. We recommend that, prior to a new student's arrival in the fall, the parents contact the Director of Academic Support, if any differences or disabilities have previously been identified for their child.

If there is concern about a student's performance, a referral will be made to the Director of Academic Support. She will meet with the student in her office, located in the Counseling Wing of the Schoolhouse, assess the situation and lend support where needed. Together with the Student Program Review Committee (SPRC), made up of her, the Director or Studies, and the School Counselor, she will monitor the student's progress and make further recommendations as necessary.

The School's resources include assistance with academic time management, organizational techniques, study skills and an introduction to alternative learning styles. Testing for learning differences may be recommended by the SPRC, to become fully aware of a particular student's learning style, his or her strengths, weaknesses or challenges. Testing also provides a clear set of recommendations to the Director of Academic Support and ultimately to the teachers involved in working with the student on a daily basis. If testing seems to be appropriate, the Director of Academic Support will contact the parents with the recommendation, at which point, assuming that agreement is reached, they will be put in touch with our consulting educational psychologist. In accordance with the findings of a documented evaluation, the Director will implement the recommendations and/or special accommodations, within the limits of the School's curriculum and resources. There are no separate courses of study for students with disabilities.

Peer Tutors:
Peer tutors, students who have designated themselves as tutors in particular disciplines of strength, are available to younger students in need. The Director of Academic Support will compile a list of such tutors at the beginning of the school year and will help anyone interested in finding an appropriate tutor.

Outside Tutors:
Because Groton is a residential school and teachers are readily available for extra help outside of class, the School does not support the use of outside tutors, except during vacations at home.