This document summarizes best practices for supporting underserved students at independent schools based on a presentation by the Schools, Mentoring and Resource Team (SMART). It discusses challenges faced by underserved students, such as navigating financial aid and academics. It also outlines SMART's programs to help with placement, academic support, college access, and social/emotional support through tutoring, mentoring and community building. Peer support is emphasized as important for encouraging college completion. The document advocates for building strong support networks and communities for underserved students.

1. Supporting Underserved Students in Independent Schools: Valuable Best Practices SMART (Schools, Mentoring and Resource Team) Nonoko Sato, Executive DirectorErin Gevertz, Director of Placement Services

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3. Small Group Discussions (10 Minutes) Break out into groups of 4-5 people. Brainstorm some challenges students from underserved communities might face in independent school settings. Provide one specific example of each challenge your group names. Share with the group.

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6. Navigate financial aid forms.

7. Keeping track of “Extra” costs outside of tuition.

8. Navigating a more rigorous academic environment.

9. Understanding and accepting different expectations in and out of the classroom.

10. Parents unable to financially or resourcefully provide tutors, learning specialists, therapists, etc.

11. Language barriers prevent parents from connecting with teachers.

12. Less homework help at home; parents have less formal education than those of independent school peers.

13. Reconciling the two worlds the students are living in (“Code-Switching”).

14. Making new friends with peers from privileged backgrounds.

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18. Advocates for independent school placement

19. Assists in financial aid process.

20. Educates and empowers families.

23. Navigates college application and financial aid process.

24. Cultivates community service and engagement opportunities.College Access

25. Financial Solutions True full scholarships Identify potential “extra” costs School value a diverse and inclusive learning environment Annual Fund giving Partnership with scholarship programs

26. Academic Solutions Academic summer enrichment program After-school program Trained tutors Faculty liaison & trainings Parent education, advocacy, and support Tailored support

27. Social/Emotional Solutions Separate after-school program location Peer support (shared experiences & backgrounds) High school scholars and college alumni Life-skills, leadership, and self-advocacy curriculum House visits Trained & dedicated mentors

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29. Beyond Academic Preparation: The effect of specific supports on college completion Source: http://bridgespan.org/LearningCenter/ResourceDetail.aspx?id=412

30. Small Group Discussions (5 Minutes) Get together with your original group. Brainstorm supports your organization can provide to encourage peer support. Share with the group.

31. Best Practices Build strong community among students with similar backgrounds. Offer safe learning environment to students and parents. Support a strong volunteer base and cultivate dedicated & knowledgeable staff. Partner with other CBOs to provide more services & support. Create an Alumni Advisory Board. Implement Affinity Groups (based on gender, ethnicity, age, cultural heritage). Create a support network for each student. Encourage schools to accept students in cohorts.

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