Academic Support
We believe that all students can benefit tremendously from extra support and the knowledge that there's always somebody in their corner.
The Akin Learning Center is the hub of academic life at Kents Hill with an "open door" policy for help and support. The Learning Skills Program combines curriculum-based tutoring, executive skills training, and social-emotional awareness to help students thrive in all aspects of school life. Learning Specialists partner with students every step of the way and ensure that they are prepared to tackle college and beyond with self-confidence, self-determination, and self-advocacy.
Learn more about Akin Learning Center
Learning Skills Program Core Components
Level 1
- Two-on-one support.
- Regularly scheduled meetings with a Learning Specialist during the regular academic schedule.
- Individualized learning plan focused on strengths, opportunities, and reflection.
- Open-door support during flex time, free periods, and evenings.
Level 2
- Small group support (fewer than 4 students).
- Regularly scheduled meetings with a Learning Specialist during the regular academic schedule.
- Individualized learning plan focused on strengths, opportunities, and reflection.
- Open-door support during flex time, free periods, and evenings.
Level 3
- Learning support
- Open-door support during flex time, free periods, and evenings.
- Weekly meeting with a Learning Specialist.
- Support from Learning Specialists to review assignments, create a plan to complete work, and to talk about current grades.
English Language Support
Two levels of English Language Support are available for students who want to improve their English language skills before college. In the first level, students work one-on-one with a Learning Specialist. In the second, students receive support from a Learning Specialist in a small group setting that allows for instructional guidance with independence.
Support for All
Any students who miss class during the day (including those not enrolled in the Learning Skills Program) participate in evening Academic Recoup, a supervised time to catch up on work, make a plan, and learn about time management and organization. Learning Specialists are also available for appointments during flex and free time that is built into the daily academic schedule, and peer tutors are available with expertise in every subject.
Meet our Learning Specialists
Erica Chute
Dean of Community Life
B.A., St. Michael's College
M.Ed., University of Southern Maine
M.Ed., University of Southern Maine
Karina Escajeda
ESL Support Teacher
Mary Keeley
Director of the Akin Learning Center
B.A., St. Michael's College
M.Ed., University of Maine
M.Ed., University of Maine
Chris McInerney
Learning Center Teacher
B.F.A., Rhode Island School of Design
M.S., University of Southern Maine
M.S., University of Southern Maine
Karl Schroeder
Learning Center Teacher, Boys Varsity Soccer Head Coach
Bailey Smith
Learning Center Teacher
B.A., University of Maine
Maureen Whitestone
Associate Director of the Akin Learning Center, Social Studies Teacher
M.A., Bowling Green University
B.S., Marywood University
B.S., Marywood University
Akin Learning Center Partnerships
