Academic Support
What happens when students struggle academically?
At Gorham High School, we believe that students thrive when they attend class, complete their homework, participate in classroom activities, and engage with instruction. Consistent effort in these areas leads to academic success.
We understand that high school students are still growing—cognitively, emotionally, and socially. Some face significant challenges at home or struggle with physical or mental health, and we are committed to supporting students during these difficult times.
How We Support Students
GHS teachers and staff are proactive in identifying and responding to academic challenges. Our support is tiered to meet the varying needs of our students:
Tier 1: Classroom-Based Support (For All Students) | Tier 2: Targeted Interventions | Tier 3: Intensive Support Services |
|---|---|---|
Teachers communicate individually with students about academic challenges. | Teachers refer students to the RTI (Response to Intervention) Team to assess academic needs and identify interventions. | If Tier 2 interventions are not sufficient, a follow-up team meeting may be held to review progress and next steps. |
Teachers provide direct support within the classroom. | Teachers may invite parents or guardians to meet to a conference to discuss their concerns. | Student may be referred for evaluation for 504 accommodations or Special Education Services. |
Teachers may provide flexible deadlines when appropriate. | An RTI plan may be developed to document strategies and monitor progress. | A formal plan may be developed through 504 or an IEP (Individualized Education Program) to provide individualized supports and services. |
Teachers may encourage students to revise work and retake assessments to demonstrate learning. | Student may have regular check-ins with a teacher, counselor, or other support staff. | |
Teachers may invite students to see them during a study halls or to stay after-school for help sessions. | Student may be assigned to the RAM Lab study hall for additional academic support with coursework and homework. | |
Teachers consult with the instructional strategist or support staff as needed. | Seniors struggling in courses may have their senior privileges replaced with a study hall to focus on academic progress. | |
Teachers communicate regularly with parents/guardians through phone, email, or conferences. |
Special Education and Section 504 Child Find Notice
The Gorham School Department has a duty to locate, evaluate, and identify any child residing in the district who qualifies for Special Education services or any child attending the public schools who may require Section 504 accommodations or services.
Children eligible for special education include those children with disabilities who have autism, deaf-blindness, emotional disturbance, hearing impairment, multiple disabilities, orthopedic impairment, other health impairment, specific learning disability, speech or language impairment, traumatic brain injury, acquired brain injury, visual impairment, or developmental delay and who, because of such an impairment, need special education services.
Children eligible for Section 504 accommodations or services include those children who have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity.
If you suspect your child has a disability and may need special education services or 504 accommodations, or if you would like additional information, please contact your child’s teacher, or GHS Instructional Strategist Saira Hirji (saira.hirji@gorhamschools.org). For more information about RTI, Section 504, or Special Education services, please click on the buttons below.