Student Support

The student support philosophy at Austin Waldorf School is based on a collaborative threefold approach, where the school, home, and community work together to assist students in overcoming challenges that arise in the school environment.

This process is strengths-based and focuses on building a comprehensive network of support, coordinating efforts, and implementing a range of interventions while continuously tracking results. A key aspect of the student support process is the active inclusion of the student, making their voice central in shaping the support strategies designed for them. Parents and guardians offer crucial insights, contributing valuable information about the student’s needs and experiences.

AWS can provide needed support and accommodations to students who are showing a need. Based on our expertise, we can provide strategies, monitor their effectiveness, and make adjustments, ensuring that students receive timely and equitable support.

Additional support

Students who would benefit from support such as skill building in executive functioning and work habits, check-ins, assistance with writing (organizing/refining essays), creating study guides, or preparing for tests can sign up to see the Student Support Coordinator, located in the High School Office.

Students needing emotional support can schedule a time to see our counselor.

AWS will contact parents to share concerns regarding academic progress or behavioral challenges staff observe during the year. Parents can also provide information to the classroom teacher or school that is relevant to their child.

Like every school, Austin Waldorf School has a Child Find responsibility to identify students who have learning challenges and/or a disability.

As a private school, AWS is not able to conduct Full and Individual Evaluations (FIEs) for the purpose of identifying a learning disability, but can assist parents/guardians in obtaining one. Due to our location, our students are eligible for testing through Austin Independent School District. The Student Support Coordinator can assist families with requesting an evaluation from AISD.

During the evaluation process, AWS will collaborate with AISD evaluators, including providing academic data, conducting classroom observations, and providing student information such as class schedule to assist them in completing the evaluation.

Once the evaluation is completed and received by AWS, a meeting will be scheduled so a more formal plan can be completed. Recommended accommodations and services will be discussed and a formal plan will be created. This plan will be reviewed annually for any needed changes or updates. Parents can also request a review meeting at any time by contacting the Student Support Coordinator.