Helping Every Student Thrive: Reading Boost & Instructional Support at FPD

At First Presbyterian Day School in Macon, GA, we believe every child learns differently—and that’s a gift. Some students need an extra boost to build confidence in reading, organization, or study skills. Through our Reading Boost and Instructional Support programs, FPD helps students strengthen those skills in an encouraging, Christ-centered environment.

Reading Boost: Confidence Through the Orton-Gillingham Method (Lower School)

FPD’s Reading Boost program is offered in the Lower School for students who need additional help strengthening their reading skills. The goal of Reading Boost is to help students build a strong foundation for reading through small group, Orton-Gillingham/Structured Literacy interventions.  Orton-Gillingham is a multi-sensory, highly-structured approach that serves as an intensive reading approach, with a focus on breaking down spelling and reading into smaller skills involving letters & sounds. The reading instruction uses explicit, sequential, and systematic instruction to teach reading.  OG in Reading Boost partners seamlessly with reading instruction in the early years at FPD.

How Students Are Identified

Through ongoing dialogue, conferences, and observation, classroom teachers identify students who may benefit from Reading Boost. Reading Boost enrollment information is shared with families, and if enrollment is selected, the child joins a small group of students learning at the same reading level. If no group exists for that grade, a new one is formed. Each group is limited to five students for maximum attention and impact.

The Transformation We See

Reading Boost students meet four times a week during the school day with trained teachers—Lynn Strickland, Cathy Knight, and Traci Martin. In this focused environment, students’ reading skills—and confidence—grow side by side.

Working in small groups and following a consistent routine allows students to relax, focus, and celebrate their progress. As they begin to recognize their own improvement, their confidence and enthusiasm for reading flourish.

Partnering With Families

Reading Boost teachers partner closely with families and classroom teachers. Parents are informed weekly about specific skills and strategies being taught, and work is sent home every Thursday. This consistent communication helps parents see progress and provides tools to reinforce school day learning at home.

Encouragement for Parents

If a parent is unsure whether their child needs extra reading support, the Reading Boost team encourages them to try the program for one school year. In nearly every case, students benefit—gaining stronger reading skills, greater confidence, and a love for learning that lasts well beyond the classroom.

Instructional Support: Helping Students Reach Their Top Academic Potential

FPD’s Instructional Support program is available across Elementary, Middle, and High School, providing individualized academic guidance for students who need extra support.

In Elementary and Middle School, Instructional Support helps students by:

• Teaching self-advocacy skills to help them take ownership of learning

• Providing academic support tailored to each student’s needs

• Offering strategies for organization and study skills

• Granting approved testing accommodations for eligible students

In High School, Instructional Support focuses on:

• Continuing to build self-advocacy skills for independent success

• Delivering subject-specific academic support based on individual needs

• Strengthening executive functioning and organizational skills

• Providing testing accommodations as approved by the College Board

Instructional Support teachers Cathy Knight, Traci Martin, Audra Hubbard, and Kelly Bullington guide students through personalized lessons that build confidence, sharpen study habits, and reinforce understanding in key subjects. Sessions take place during the school day to provide consistent support without interrupting other learning opportunities.

A Partnership for Growth

Both programs reflect FPD’s mission—to nurture each child’s mind and heart through academic excellence and Christian mentorship. With the right guidance and encouragement, students learn that challenges are not setbacks—they are stepping stones toward growth.

If you think your child would benefit from Reading Boost or Instructional Support, please email kelly.bullington@fpdmacon.org for more information.