AISM
Learning Support Department (LSD)
The Learning Support Department at AISM is dedicated to providing personalized educational support to students with diverse learning needs. Our goal is to ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed academically and socially. Our learning Support Department was established in 2023 to address the growing need for specialized educational services within our school community. Since then, we have been committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment where all students feel valued and supported.
Meet our Learning Support Teacher
Hello, my name is Amal Iskandarani. I am the Learning Support Teacher at the American International School of Monrovia (AISM). Originally from Lebanon, I hold a master’s degree in special education and an International Certification in Family Coaching. With 8 years of experience working with students with special needs, I specialize in implementing interventions and differentiation in lessons and assessments to meet the unique needs of every student.
I believe that every individual is different and deserves to be accepted as they are. This philosophy is central to my approach: when we embrace our differences, we pave the way for true growth and success. I am honored to have had the opportunity to establish the first Learning Support Department in Liberia, specifically designed to provide interventions and support for students. This is a groundbreaking step in education here, and I am thrilled to be part of this journey toward inclusion and success for all students.
Mission
The mission of the Learning Support Department (LSD) at AISM is to provide inclusive, tailored support to students with diverse learning needs.
We strive to ensure that every learner has the opportunity to reach their full potential through differentiated instruction, individualized interventions, and a supportive, understanding environment.
Our goal is to empower students to achieve academic success and personal growth by embracing their unique strengths and addressing their challenges with compassion and innovation.
Students We Welcome at AISM Learning Support Department
At the Learning Support Department of AISM, we welcome students with a variety of learning needs. Our program is designed to support students with learning disabilities (in reading, writing, and math) and students with ADHD/ADD. Additionally, we offer support to students with mild intellectual disabilities, high-functioning students and those with mild cases of autism spectrum.
Before accepting any student into the program, a comprehensive case study is conducted to ensure we have the necessary resources and support available at AISM to meet their individual needs.
AISM Learning Support Process
The purpose of this process is to avoid rushing into a decision to request a psycho-educational assessment. We believe that each student can struggle or face difficulties during the learning process for a variety of reasons—whether environmental, family-related, or other temporary factors. By following these steps, we give students the time and support they need to improve, with the understanding that the right and suitable interventions can help them overcome their challenges.
Before Starting the Process:
We begin by talking with the student, parents, and colleagues. This might involve implementing a class-wide behavior management system or differentiating instructions based on the student’s needs.
Our 4-step Process:
Step 1: Initial Concern (3 Weeks)
The teacher identifies a concern, which is then discussed with the Learning Support Teacher (LST). The LST provides the teacher with new strategies and interventions to try.
If sufficient progress is made, the process may end here. If not, we move to Step 2.
Step 2: Team Collaboration (4 to 6 Weeks)
The teacher, LST, and Student Support Team (SST) complete a Step 2 form, detailing the problem, any behaviors of concern, and the solutions suggested by the team.
The teacher implements the new strategies and notes observations and comments during this period. If progress is limited or absent after this period, we move to Step 3.
Step 3: Intervention Plan (6 to 12 Weeks)
The LST and team complete a Step 3 form, which is an intervention plan.
This plan includes accommodations and specific instructions that must be implemented, with regular check-ins.
If there is still little to no progress, we proceed to Step 4.
Step 4: Psycho-Educational Evaluation
The SST team requests a psycho-educational evaluation to gain deeper insights into the student's needs. Based on the results of this evaluation, the LST will develop and implement a Personalized Intervention Plan (PIP) tailored to the student's needs.
All information and interventions are kept strictly confidential, ensuring that the student’s privacy is respected throughout the process.
AISM Learning Support Programs
At AISM's Learning Support Department, we provide two main types of support programs tailored to meet the individual needs of our students: Accommodation/Adaptation and Modification. Each program ensures that students with learning challenges have the opportunity to succeed academically and personally.
Accommodation/Adaptation focuses on providing students with the necessary tools and changes in the learning environment or instructional methods to ensure they can access the curriculum on an equal footing with their peers. These adjustments do not alter the core expectations or academic standards but make learning more accessible for each student.
Modification involves altering the content, expectations, or performance standards of the curriculum. This program is used for students who may require more significant changes in what they are learning or how they are assessed to meet their unique needs.
For each student enrolled in the Learning Support Department, we develop a Personalized Intervention Plan (PIP). This plan outlines the specific accommodations, modifications, and instructional strategies tailored to the student's strengths and areas of need. The IEP is created through collaboration with teachers, parents, and specialists to ensure that the student receives the most effective and personalized support possible.
Contact our AISM Learning Support Department
If you have any concerns, questions, or would like to discuss your child's progress, please don't hesitate to reach out to our Learning Support Teacher at amaliskandarani@aismonrovia.org
We value open communication and want to ensure that you feel supported throughout your child's learning journey.
Please rest assured that all conversations and discussions will be kept strictly confidential. Our Learning Support Teacher will respond to your inquiry within 48 hours
