SHS opens Student Success Centre

The Selwyn House School Student Success Centre (SSC), a creative space that offers students a caring, welcoming and safe learning environment, was officially opened on October 25.

 

Sponsors Alan ’79 and Roula Rossy cut the ribbon to christen the beautiful three-room SSC space that has been created on the third floor of the Speirs Building. The SSC is staffed by Learning Strategists Beth Saunders and Sebastien Lajoie, with the help of Administrative Assistant Maureen Powers.

 

The Student Success Centre was created to help students who may be facing difficulties in mastering all the organizational skills needed to succeed in school. “Our role at Selwyn House is to provide a supportive environment so that every student reaches his full potential,” says Miss Saunders.

 

“We want to make sure that the learning needs of every student are met,” adds Mr. Lajoie.

 

With the latest in computer and audio-visual technology and ergonomic furniture designed with students in mind, the SSC can comfortably serve 10 students at a time. The rooms are laid out with glass walls and lots of windows, for an open feeling and ample natural light.

 

The staff of the SSC assists students by: 

The SSC serves all levels of students. “In Elementary School, our focus is really a return to those basic skills of reading, emotional awareness and social skills,” explains Miss Saunders. “When our boys enter Middle School, we help provide effective study habits, organizational skills and time-management techniques.”

 

“When they get to Senior School we really focus on independence and self-advocacy, so that when boys leave here, they’re able to take control of their own learning,” adds Mr. Lajoie.

 

In addressing the guests at the grand opening of the SSC, Headmaster Hal Hannaford praised the project for helping to “kill the stigma” that too often surrounds learning difficulties.

 

It’s one more example of how Selwyn House School ensures that every student will be “known and loved.”