Foundation for Academic Excellence

The evolution of special education in the Diocese of Baton Rouge shows a growing commitment to inclusivity and personalized learning for students with diverse needs. Initially offering limited support, the diocese developed more defined programs as advocacy increased.


The St. Margaret of Castello REACH Program provided specialized assistance but highlighted the need for a more integrated approach. St. Michael the Archangel High School shifted from the REACH Program to the new SWORD Program (Strong, Warriors, Of Resilience and Determination), enhancing inclusion at the high school level. The SWORD program fosters collaboration among educators, families, and students, expanding opportunities for diverse abilities and promoting community belonging. This change aligns with the diocese's mission for comprehensive education.

Program Highlights

INCLUSIVE INSTRUCTION

  • EXPERIENCED EDUCATORS PROVIDING SPECIALIZED SUPPORT IN VARIOUS SUBJECTS.
  • LIMITED CLASS SIZES THAT ENSURE PERSONALIZED ATTENTION AND FOSTER A SUPPORTIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

COMMUNITY & FELLOWSHIP

  • PEER MENTORSHIP GROUNDED IN CATHOLIC VALUES.
  • OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS TO CONNECT & FORM LASTING FRIENDSHIPS.
  • ENGAGEMENT IN SCHOOL CLUBS, EVENTS, & ATHLETICS TO FOSTER A SENSE OF BELONGING AND COMMUNITY.

PERSONAL GROWTH

  • FOCUS ON ESSENTIAL LIFE SKILLS, SOCIAL INTERACTIONS, & ACADEMIC GROWTH.
  • CONTINUOUS ENCOURAGEMENT & SUPPORT TO NURTURE EACH STUDENT’S POTENTIAL.

Sword & Sheild Coffee Shop

One of the program's most impressive aspects is the Sword & Shield Coffee Shop—a student-operated café on campus. Managed by SWORD Students with the assistance of “wingmen” (mentoring students) and overseen by faculty sponsors, this coffee shop serves as a practical training space for essential life and business skills. Students gain experience in customer service, teamwork, scheduling, transaction handling, and collaboration within a food lab environment.

Community & Growth

Creating space for every student to walk confidently into their future! The Sword & Sheild Coffee Shop fosters meaningful interactions.

Encouragement!

Encouraging leadership, initiative, and social confidence. SWORD students gain practical skills and life lessons that extend beyond high school. They learn the value of perseverance, collaboration, responsibility, and dignity in all work.

A growing commitment to inclusivity

ELA Lab

The ELA Lab Services Program focuses on support students with learning differences including dyslexia. Student utilizing the ELA Lab services either have a diagnosis of dyslexia or are recommended by the school administration due to difficulties in the area of reading.

How does the Lab Services Program help the students?

Instruction is tailored to each students needs and may encompass one or more of the targeted areas outlined below.

  • 1. Reading Stratgegies

    • Phonemic Awareness: Focus on sound  recognition and manipulation.
    • Decoding Skills: Teach Stratgegies and rules for breaking down word.

  • 2. Writing Support

    • Structured Writing Techniques: Utilize graphic organizers and outlines.
    • Spelling Strategies: Explore multi-sensory approaches to improve spelling.
    • Grammar and Mechanics: Provide explicit instruction tailored to individual needs.

  • 3. Study Skills and Organization

    • Time Management: Teach Student how to priortize tasks and use electronic or traditionl planners effectively.
    • Test-Taking Strategies: Practice techniques for managing anxiety and various tesk-taking approaches.

How often do students attend Lab Services?

Students will attend ELA Lab for one period a day and will receive an elective credit.

How do I apply for Lab Services?

As courses are being scheduled for the next school year, families will work with school administration and the Lab Services Coordinator to evaluate whether a child qualifies for the program.

If you have further questions about the Lab Services Program, contact Shea Woodring at swoodring@smhsbr.org or (225) 753-9782 ext. 625