Executive Functioning
At Quad Prep, executive functioning (EF) skills are at the heart of our mission of transforming the lives of twice-exceptional students. Planning, organizing, time management, perseverance, and other critical EF skills are foundational for academic achievement, personal growth, and overall independence.
Our program is anchored in a detailed and comprehensive EF framework for all students in grades K-12. Our vertically-aligned program ensures students learn important concepts throughout the year in a developmentally appropriate way, as well as progressively build their EF skills over time. Led by Athena Stagias, Chief Executive Functioning Specialist, K-12, Quad Prep’s EF program integrates EF into all curricula.
Our Approach to Executive Functioning
To support our diverse learners, we have carefully crafted a comprehensive, school-wide EF program, grounded in cutting-edge, evidence-based methodologies from world-renowned EF experts Sarah Ward and Kristen Jacobsen.
EF programming is uniquely integrated into every aspect of our personalized, gifted academic curriculum, ensuring that students not only excel academically but also develop the skills they need to thrive beyond the classroom. These skills are not taught in isolation—they are seamlessly embedded into daily academic experiences, allowing students to immediately apply what they learn to real-world challenges.
Benefits of Executive Functioning for Twice-Exceptional Learners
Through integrated lessons, proactive strategies, hands-on practice, and individualized interventions tailored to meet the unique needs of our twice-exceptional learners, Quad Prep students from Kindergarten through 12th grade not only develop the skills they need to effectively share their passions and knowledge with others, but also excel academically and beyond. Hands-on, dynamic lessons help students with:
- Time management skills
- Organizational skills
- Task initiation and planning
- Confidence
- Emotional regulation
Partnering with Families
Strong training and partnership with staff and parents alike is crucial in creating a cohesive support system. Faculty members across all grades and in both academic and clinical roles receive regular training to embed EF strategies into their work. This training ensures that tools are shaped to fit the needs of each class or session and that students experience consistent messaging across settings. Additionally, families gain actionable tips to reinforce EF skills at home through parent coffees, video newsletters, and on-demand resources.
Unlocking Superpowers:
Developing Executive Functioning Skills from K to 12
Executive functioning support is an integral part of the Quad Prep model. By strengthening the cognitive processes that help plan, organize, and complete tasks, manage time, and regulate emotions, neurodivergent students can better achieve their goals.
A not-for-profit independent college preparatory school, Quad Prep’s rich and robust curriculum engages, challenges, and inspires students at all levels, K–12, through our Lower School and Upper School programs.