Student Support

Cultivating Care and Connection

Students with a strong network of connected peers and adults—educators, school counselors, coaches, and parents—are significantly more likely to feel a deep sense of belonging, develop confidence, and build emotional intelligence. These relationships provide the support students need to stay engaged, grow through challenges, and develop the social, emotional, and academic skills essential for lifelong success.

At ODA, we are intentional about creating and sustaining this supportive network through a comprehensive program that promotes emotional wellness, academic support, and positive personal development. We understand that connection alone isn’t enough—students also benefit from being empowered to care for themselves and others. That’s why we integrate academic and socio-emotional learning and healthy habits directly into the curriculum, empowering students with knowledge and skills that serve them well beyond the classroom.

Lower School School Counselor Support

In the Lower School, students participate in wellness classes that cover age-appropriate, academic, social, and emotional health-related topics. Led by the Lower School Counselor, these classes focus on mindfulness, empathy, inclusion, goal setting, problem solving, and executive functioning skills. 

Beyond the classroom, our Lower School Counselor is fully visible and integrated into the life of the school—contributing to curriculum planning, student life, and classroom management, partnering with administrators, and providing professional development to educators. As trusted thought leaders in child development, they provide invaluable insight to ensure all facets of our school reflect what is developmentally appropriate for our students.

Middle and Upper School Counselor Support

School Counselors are a visible, integral presence. They lead small-group discussions, collaborate closely with educators and parents, contribute to classroom dynamics, and are consistently available to support students as academic, social, or emotional needs arise. Their deep integration into the fabric of school life ensures that care is not only available but seamlessly woven into each student’s experience—helping them stay grounded, connected, and confident.

By remaining consistently present and actively engaged in the daily rhythm of school life, counselors become trusted, familiar figures. Their visibility helps normalize the act of seeking support and reinforces it as a sign of strength. This culture of openness is deeply felt by our students—96.5% of Upper School students report feeling comfortable approaching an educator when they need support.

In Upper School, students also participate in a dedicated Life Management Skills course designed to promote academic readiness, emotional wellbeing, and social awareness. Through this course, they develop practical strategies for managing stress, organizing their time, building strong relationships, and advocating for themselves. 

Learning Specialists

Student support-driven Learning Specialists provide a program that facilitates targeted academic support to students from pre-K to grade 12 with learning differences who may benefit from additional academic strategies or individualized attention. Through close collaboration with students, educators, and families, they help ensure that every learner has the tools and confidence to meet their potential.

The Academic Support team uses a whole-school approach to advocate for and guide students—meeting their needs, honoring their strengths, and contributing to a nurturing environment where all students can succeed.