We will not be distracted by comparison if we are captivated by purpose.

Student Care & Belonging

Our #1 mission is to nurture belonging and student care. Integrating the comprehensive philosophy of Dr. Bettina Love, North Star Academics creates educational settings where every student’s identity is acknowledged and celebrated.

Dr. Love insists that belonging goes beyond inclusion; it requires actively dismantling the inequitable structures that obstruct true equality in education. Our model intertwines this foundation with data-backed strategies to construct an inclusive educational journey for each student.

Evidence from the American Educational Research Association illustrates that students with a strong sense of belonging are more likely to perform better academically, showing improved GPAs and higher graduation rates. Furthermore, studies by experts like Dr. Pedro Noguera highlight that equitable practices are critical to boosting academic outcomes for marginalized students.

Neurodivergent students, including those with ASD, often face social and communication challenges that can hinder their academic and social development. This is exacerbated by the lack of coordinated, comprehensive support systems within educational institutions. Research indicates that when supports are in place and tailored to individual needs, students experience reduced anxiety and improved academic performance.

However, accessing these necessary supports can be a challenge. Many neurodivergent students do not seek academic accommodations due to stigma or lack of knowledge on how to request help. Even when accommodations are desired, there is often a disconnect in the provision of support needed, leading to withdrawal from classes or the absence of adequate support.

At North Star, we prioritize a coordinated support system that acknowledges the holistic needs of students. We seek to fill the gaps in support systems and ensure our students have the resources to succeed. Our goal is for each student to feel connected, respected and motivated, setting them up for success in their academic endeavors and beyond.

School Services

e provide student and classroom observation services, aiming to enhance the learning experience for students. Our team conducts in-depth assessments to monitor student interactions, engagement, and their ability to navigate the educational landscape effectively. Our service extends beyond pinpointing obstacles; it’s about acknowledging and nurturing the unique capabilities of every student.
The insights gained from our observations serve a multi-faceted purpose; They provide concrete data to inform pedagogical approaches and curriculum development to administrators, and equip teachers and educators with the information to refine teaching strategies, ensuring every student's learning needs are met. Our detailed reports clarify classroom interactions for parents, providing a transparent view of their child's educational experience. Such clarity strengthens the home-school connection, a vital component for student achievement.
Most importantly, our services have a direct and positive impact on students. By aligning our observations with educational therapy and executive functioning strategies, we ensure that interventions are academically beneficial and supportive of each student's overall well-being.

North Star Academics offers a comprehensive professional development and training program for educators and school staff, focusing on enhancing support for neurodivergent and BIPOC students through Universal Design for Learning principles. Our workshops equip teachers with the skills to foster inclusive classrooms and integrate Educational Therapy techniques and executive functioning skills into their daily practices.
Our training sessions delve into strategies that build stronger relationships with families, encouraging collaboration that extends beyond the classroom to create a supportive community for all students. We emphasize the importance of recognizing and valuing each student's diverse experiences and abilities, ensuring that educational environments are responsive and conducive to every student's success.