Shadow Project

Goal setting (1,951 students in 51 schools): students earn educational reinforcers (books, sensory tools, school/art/writing supplies) to celebrate progress made toward academic and behavioral goals they set for themselves, such as reading for 15 minutes a day, turning in homework, or improving attendance. This teaches self-sufficiency, critical thinking skills, and perseverance, and leads to greater social and academic confidence.

Reading mentors (91 students in 9 schools): helps improve the reading skills of students with learning challenges by pairing them with a caring adult mentor who coaches them in the use of a specialized assistive reading technology. Students can see and hear words as they read, helping them build vocabulary, comprehension, and knowledge. Mentors provide encouragement when a student stumbles and teach them that it's okay to ask for help.

Supersensory spaces (57 students in 11 schools): designated breakout rooms that help children with learning challenges and trauma develop skills to manage their emotions so they can remain connected to their classrooms, experience belonging and inclusion at school, and move towards meeting important benchmarks. The rooms help students rebuild their sense of safety and exercise their social-emotional muscles.