Study Skills is a small group, fee-based, elective class open to all students. Teachers work with students to develop individualized learning strategies that support executive function skills and learning in their content classes. Strong partnerships with students, families, and teachers aid Study Skills teachers in taking a holistic approach to our work as we craft individualized instruction, deepen student understanding of classroom curriculum, and communicate with key people in a student’s support system. The course is designed to provide flexible support that meets each student’s unique needs based on their level of skill development and understanding of learning barriers. Students can take this course for multiple trimesters/years. 

If you answer yes to one or more of these questions, then Study Skills may be a good fit for your student:

• Does your student find it challenging to adjust to new routines, environments, or tasks?
• Is your child still developing the confidence and skills to express their learning needs or have difficulty self-advocating?
• Does your student often feel overwhelmed with school demands? 
• Is your child having a hard time keeping up with assignments or turning in work on time?
• Does your student need help with learning strategies, impulse control support, or accommodations related to a diagnosis?

The Study Skills teacher serves as an advocate for the student in helping them navigate their accommodations and communications with their teachers. They frequently act as the academic glue connecting families, students, and teachers/advisors. Study Skills teachers work closely with classroom teachers so they know what the assignment expectations are and can help the classroom teacher better understand the student’s learning profile. The teacher also has regular communication with parents around assignment completion and progress.

For over 20 years, Study Skills classes have been an integral part of how we serve diverse learners at Seattle Academy. The Study Skills class is unique because we teach students valuable skills in the context of the classes they are taking. This means that our Study Skills teachers have knowledge of student’s assignments and can partner directly with classroom teachers to support students. Because we understand the obstacles of obtaining formal evaluation documentation for learning differences, Seattle Academy does not limit our enrollment bases on diagnosis.

• In Middle School, Study Skills meets during one of the elective blocks in place of one of the elective classes (PE, Arts, Instrumental, or World Language). 
• In Upper School, students receive elective credit for Study Skills.
   

The fee for the 2025-26 school year is $10,281 and a variety of payment plans can be arranged with the business office. Upper School students can take Study Skills by trimester and the cost of the program is prorated for the time they are enrolled ($3,427 per trimester). Middle School students are committed to a full year. 

Families already receiving financial aid will receive an additional award for the Study Skills class. Families who are not currently receiving aid for tuition but need assistance with the additional Study Skills cost can fill out the financial aid forms through the School and Student Services (SSS) and see if they qualify for an award. 

Students/Families indicate a desire to enroll during the registration process and receive a confirmation email after the close of registration. At that time, families can request a meeting with the Study Skills Department Chair to discuss placement, gain additional information, or email to decline enrollment.