FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
We have found that it is better for all involved if the arrangement stays consistent throughout the semester. That being said, if extenuating circumstances develop, such as unforeseen illness or Coronavirus, alterations to the original agreement can be considered.
Included with our program is a one-of-a-kind custom academic planner (proprietary). This amazing resource is unlike anything that exists on the market today and was designed specifically for the college freshman. If used correctly and consistently, it has a 100% success rate. It is a powerful tool that allows your student to become the master of their time. We insist upon (and monitor) its consistent usage throughout the program because we know that it is the quickest way to teach the organization skills they will need to be successful.
Yes. It is part of what makes our program so successful! The relationship you build with your coach is unique. Though all our coaches are highly educated, capable individuals, they are not interchangeable in the relationship you will have. Through our coachability and personality assessments completed at the beginning of the program, we determine a good fit between student and coach, creating the perfect match for your family. For these reasons we find continuing with the same coach throughout the program is most beneficial.
First and foremost, we LISTEN. We arrange an “intake” session to discuss what the student (and parents) would like to get from the sessions. It is essential to take the time to hear expectations on both sides, as well as understand academic strengths and challenges. We want to get to know the student, their learning style, goals, personality, interests, and things beyond their academic performance. All this goes into the coach selection process of determining the best fit for the student.
Our coaches make this program! They are dedicated educators who want to help students overcome obstacles and find success. Our coaches teach in high schools or colleges, making them relatable and current. The average coach has over 10 years of experience, giving them the background necessary to anticipate challenges, work with diverse learners, and develop their areas of expertise. Each coach brings unique gifts and talents to our team and will be selected for a student based on their experience, skills, and relatability to the student.
- Once a call takes place to initiate the process, an “intake” session will be scheduled.
- A coach will be selected about a week later, and an “intro” session will be scheduled.
- After the “intro” session, we will determine if the coach is a good fit and, if so, the duration of the contract for sessions and any breaks needed as per the student's school calendar. We will also discuss payment arrangements at this time.
- Two weeks into sessions, we will check in with the student to ensure a good fit with the coach and progress is being made. If a change is needed at this point, one will be made. We never want students to feel “stuck” with a coach they do not enjoy or feel is a good match. This is referred to as our “good fit guarantee.”
Sessions are “semi-structured” in that they all cover the specific material the student needs but in a style and order specific to the student's needs. Coaches will review assignments and course grades for each class together with the student and respond to what is pressing for the student during that time-frame. They will also place a significant emphasis on proper time management techniques, organization, and accountability.
In the “intro” session, coaches provide their preferred communication method. Students are welcome to contact their coach between sessions with any questions or concerns. The coach may also contact the student between sessions to provide encouragement and support during stressful times, such as before or after an exam, to help follow through on an assignment, or to promote accountability.
If students become dissatisfied with their coach at any point in the arrangement, they should contact the specified person/contact given to them at the start of the arrangement. This person is separate from the coach, so the student is not intimidated when reporting dissatisfaction. There are absolutely no repercussions, and the new coach will not interact with the one who was replaced (unless specifically requested by the student).
Students must let their coach know they cannot make a session at least 24 hours before the scheduled session. In an emergency, consideration will be given.
Progress is noted weekly through coach reporting. At the end of the agreed-upon contract, assessments are made to determine whether a continuation is recommended. Communication is always open throughout the contract for any concerns or questions.
Each student has unique needs and will be determined on an individual basis. Some students are with us for one semester or school year; others continue for more. The goal is always successful and demonstrates independence.
The program costs $75 per week and is contracted for an agreed-upon number of weeks. This varies by student, as different schools have different calendars. Some semesters last as little as 8 weeks, and others can last up to 20 weeks. Typical college student semesters last 15 weeks, and typical high school semesters last 20 weeks.
Each session typically runs for 60 minutes.
Students meet weekly with their coach at a set time for consistency, preferably on the same day/time. Occasionally, sessions are divided into two 30-minute sessions when necessary, such as for a student with ADHD or for time-constrained reasons, such as a busy college schedule.
Typically, students have one 60-minute session per week. Occasionally, students need more and will have an arrangement of two 60-minute sessions. If two sessions are scheduled per week, the cost will be slightly different, which will be discussed in the “intro” session. Once students transition to independence, sessions can be tapered off every other week or monthly.
Extra sessions can be added for times of higher support needs. There is an additional cost for sessions outside the original contract, which will be discussed with the student/family before the sessions occur. The addition of sessions is flexible throughout the contract, so if a student has a period of time when they anticipate needing more support, they can quickly and easily request extra sessions.
GOOD. FIT. GUARANTEED.
Our coaches are dedicated to providing an exceptional experience that is custom-tailored to the individual needs of your student.
What People Say
We love helping students maximize their potential. Check out what they say about their experience with ACS.
Ana D.
“Thank you so much for everything, I’m really happy with the service that your academy provided and with the result that I see with my daughter. I will recommend your services!”
NJ D.
” The program has geared me up for success not only in the classroom but also in life. Having a dedicated plan day in and day out has helped me achieve so much. With the help and guidance from ACS, I was able to graduate college (which I never thought could happen) and have helped me land my dream job right out of college! Thank you ACS!! “
Joe D.
” I was able to improve my test scores, improve my overall grades and even make dean’s list. I also gained a new mentor, coach, and friend. I am using the skills I learned through ACS daily in my career such as planning, focusing, and prioritizing my tasks each day. “
Carolina B.
” I struggle with time management and I have learned that I need accountability to finish and reach my goals. Having someone who cares about my success, offering tools and strategies to get there, has been crucial for my professional and personal development. I am so grateful for this support from ACS in this journey. “