Academic Support Program

Divine Child High School’s Instructional Support Program (ISP) provides academic interventions and accommodations to students with diagnosed learning differences, allowing them to receive a high-quality Catholic education while optimizing their ability to learn and achieve.

We believe all families who desire a Catholic education for their child should have the opportunity to be a member of our school community and receive the same excellent education regardless of diagnosed learning differences.

Divine Child has been a pioneer and leader in developing an ISP in the Archdiocese of Detroit to support the diverse needs of all students. In the last decade, our program has grown exponentially to meet the expanding population of students in need of academic interventions and accommodations.

Our ISP currently serves more than 100 students, comprising 14% of the overall student population (or 1 in every 7 students), which aligns with the national average of students receiving these services.

ISP students are very diverse. Many take Honors or AP classes and/or graduate at or near the top of their class, frequently going on to receive academic, athletic, and performance scholarships to notable institutions.

While there are some small group classes, students in the Good Shepherd Options program are included in general education classes alongside neurotypical peers. In these classes they work on modified materials and course work with the additional 1:1 support of peer mentors.

Upon completion of their four years of study at Divine Child, students in the Good Shepherd Options program receive a Certificate of Completion. Post secondary opportunities for students who enter into Divine Child on the Certificate of Completion track, include opportunities such as post-secondary inclusive modified college programs, enter into the district for services through IDEA, attend vocational school or enter into the workforce. 

Partnering for Potential is a peer mentoring program ran through the Academic Support Program. Peer mentors provide 1:1 support to students in the Good Shepherd Options Program and students who need additional support in the Instructional Support Program (ISP). These mentors elect one period of their day to assist their peers, focusing solely on the needs of the student they are supporting. It is a joy to witness the way students encourage and assist one another through this role of service and leadership. By offering their time and support, peer mentors exemplify Christ-like values of kindness, responsibility, and a spirit of service.

Working closely with the classroom teacher, the Instructional Support team, and the Good Shepherd Options teacher, peer mentors maintain ongoing communication and collaboration. They receive training at the beginning of the year and continue to receive support and guidance throughout the school year.