“Far too often students feel like school is happening to them, rather than for them.”
We can change that. Right now. Together. We can consciously and collectively put your child in the driver’s seat to their own education — and allow them to go at their own pace, in their own way, unabashed and self-assured.
WHAT IS THE FIRST STEP?
Identifying your whole child.
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Let us get to know you and your child. Far too often children get distilled down into systematic jargon filled comments and grades. Even if it is done clearly, it still only tells half that child's story - the 'on school grounds' half.
We begin each Onward Upward partnership by creating a individualized, digestible, Learner Profile that includes academic, social and emotional information. Yes. Read that again. ‘Academic, social and emotional.’
At OnUp we recognize and value the importance of all of it. Feelings. Surroundings. Social and emotional well-being. And we take into account all of the other ‘learning environments’ that influence your child in order to create the most accurate, up-to-date, portrait of your whole child.
LEARNER PROFILE
X Academic Procurement : Report Cards, IEP 504, Evaluations (psych, speech, and/or other), Conor’s scale, behavioral assessments, behavior plans, standardized assessments, STAR/MAP testing results, plus any other additional relevant school based information.
X In-Person Meetings : both parent/guardian and child will have a 1-1 conversational consult that will allow us to gain an even better understanding of your child’s needs & aspirations. These meetings will be separate and with your child only once collectively deemed appropriate.
WHAT’S NEXT?
Create a personalized road map.
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Once we feel confident that we have gained a full portrait of your child, we will put together our recommended Unique Educational Pathway that we feel is most suitable to your child while simultaneously celebrating their individuality.
We know full well that parents may not know what other educational alternatives are out there. How could you?
We also know that navigating these educational alternatives can often times feel daunting, confusing, and complex. And not to mention, can require so much additional dedicated time that let’s face it, most parents don’t have.
That’s why at OnUp we’ve made it our responsibility to research, study, engage with & build strong, authentic, no-strings-attached relationships with the ever-growing landscape of schooling. That way we can find the right educational fit that your child can love.
“Kids love school when they feel safe, both physically and emotionally — and when they feel a sense of belonging.”
We genuinely want to help you help your child reach their fullest potential. And whether we identify one pathway or multiple pathway options, we can assure you that our recommendation(s) will be attainable and not only enhance your child’s strengths but instill for them a sense of belonging
UNIQUE EDUCATIONAL PATHWAY
X Lead Navigation of Private Alternatives : We will identify how your individual child can gain access to private options which can often times feel challenging and/or unattainable. This can include instruction on application process, coordination with admissions departments, clarity on SSAT or equivalent requirements as well as our specialized guidance around financial aid, scholarships and/or other financial subsidies.
X Identify Localized Alternatives : We will provide a range of accessible recommendations from both private and public schools in your area — including many that are likely within a busing distance of your home.
WHAT CAN’T WE FORGET TO DO?
Give your child the reins.
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Your child’s new educational path is theirs. That’s why they will have a front row seat and a voice at the table through the entire process as we learn about who they are and what new educational direction suits them best.
Our number one goal at OnUp is to eliminate the need for future tutoring and hand-holding. And instead, we must collectively prioritize building your child’s self-confidence & self-motivation in everything we do. Because if we do that, your child will be ready, willing and excited to soar on their own.
“When a child feels self-assured and empowered, only then is a child willing to take risks, explore, and learn — all without hesitation.”
PERSONALIZED SUPPORT
X Educational Coaching : Often we feel tutoring is an appropriate support for our children struggling academically. It may be, however at OnUp, we acknowledge that a host of social and emotional factors can impact academic performance. Using research based strategies we explore and address unresolved non-academic issues in order to build self-esteem, empowerment and a sense of agency on the way to skill development.
X Parent Coaching : The role of a parent is dynamic and complex. Onward Upward Consulting offers support for parents by providing tools for redirection, conflict resolution, power struggles, motivation and more. Together we will illuminate the strategies that open lines of communication and enhance your loving and supportive relationship.
WHAT MUST WE ALWAYS DO?
Advocate for your child.
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We know you do already (that’s why you’re here!). And we want you to know that we will too. You won’t be alone in your learnings, discoveries, interpretations and understandings of who your child is. Nor will you be the sole voice at the table, in meetings or on phone calls as you navigate your child’s new path. Onward Upward will be there right there with you & your child. And together we will ensure the well-being of your child’s future.
STUDENT ADVOCACY
X Learner Profile Alignment : We will share in developing a clear, full picture of your whole child — as will they.
X Demystifying Educational Jargon : We will breakdown any and all educational jargon that’s been used and or being used in real-time to describe your child and/or their abilities in order to keep you fully included in all critical conversations about the well being of your child.
X In-Person Advocacy : When and where appropriate we can join you as a member of your child’s team. As your child’s advocate, we can attend and/or contribute to meetings such as CSE, or 504, and expand across any other Educational Team meetings that relate to your child’s educational path forward.
WHAT ADDITIONAL SUPPORT IS AVAILABLE?
Advise & oversee school applications.
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Our in-depth knowledge & understanding of the children we support combined with our relationships with private schools & programs uniquely positions us to support our clients through the ever-daunting & complex private school application process.
SCHOOL APPLICATIONS
X Liaison to Admissions Office : The admissions process for specialized schools can be daunting. Fortunately, at OnUp, our relationships with admissions officers allows us to clearly communicate your hopes and concerns to proactively plan supports as we thoughtfully transition your child from one school setting to the next.
X Application Support : Let OnUp guide you through the completion of the application process. From cultivating required information to effectively communicating your aspirations, we will support you in securing the optimal educational setting for your child.
X Financial Aid Application Support : While specialized private schools can come with an price tag difficult to digest, many families are unaware of the financial aid and scholarship funds available to your child. Let us help you see all the options you did not know you had.
Independent Programs
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Your child is one of a kind. When local athletic programs and after school related programs cease to build capacity in your child, where do you turn? OnUp has developed a robust database of non-school based alternatives to meet a variety of interests.