Parish Lab
Parish Lab is a resource for 5th-12th grade students to develop essential executive functioning skills such as time management, organization & self-advocacy, and critical academic study skills and strategies
The Parish Lab program for 5th and 6th grade aims to foster both academic and personal growth through specialized instruction. This initiative helps students understand their academic habits and equips them with executive functioning skills and study strategies, empowering them as they transition in Middle School and beyond.
Key Features of the Program:
- Understanding Brain Science: Students learn about the brain science behind executive functions.
- Stress Management: Techniques to manage stress and improve attention are taught.
- Task Organization: Emphasis on planning and organizing tasks effectively.
- Enhanced Focus: Strategies to increase focus and productivity in daily activities.
- Problem-Solving: Application of problem-solving techniques is encouraged.
- Goal Setting: Understanding the importance and power of goal setting through application
Eligibility and Schedule:
- Open to 5th and 6th grade students with an active Accommodation Plan.
- Classes are held instead of Choir or Band, lasting 45 minutes every other day.
- Students have access to Parish Lab for support during Study Hall, before or after school, and during morning office hours.
- Annual Fee: $2,400
Registration:
The Parish Lab program for 7th and 8th Grade provides targeted academic support designed to foster independence, confidence, and academic growth. Students receive real-time academic assistance and year-round strategic coaching in executive functioning and study skills. This personalized guidance helps students strengthen time management, organization, and effective study strategies, resulting in improved academic performance and ownership of the learning process.
Key Features of the Program:
- Executive Functioning Skills: Coaching in time management, organization, and planning.
- Strategic Study Support: Techniques to strengthen study habits and task completion.
- Guided Independence: Check-ins and personalized support to encourage autonomy while maintaining accountability.
- Flexible Workspace Options: Choice of ideal study location based on academic needs during Student Life block.
- Proactive Support: Weekly touchpoints with the Parish Lab team to reinforce strategies and monitor progress.
Eligibility and Schedule:
- Open to 7th and 8th grade students with an active Accommodation Plan.
- Support is built into the daily Student Life block, giving students a dedicated place to work in The Gilman Study and continued ability to access additional resources, such as Middle School Math Lab and Parish Link tutors.
- Additional Availability for Support:
- Before School: 7:00-7:30 AM (by appointment only); 7:30-7:45 AM (drop-in); 7:45-8:15 AM (morning office hours)
- After School: 3:45-4:30 PM (by appointment only)
- Annual Fee: $1,650 (pro-rated midyear enrollment available upon request)
Registration:
The Parish Lab program for Upper School provides a non-graded support period designed to help students strengthen academic habits, manage stress, and develop long-term planning skills. Students benefit from structured, quiet workspaces, individual coaching, and personalized strategies that promote independence and success in high school and beyond.
Key Features of the Program:
- Project Management – Developing and implementing planning and prioritizing strategies to demonstrate personal responsibility
- Communication – Practicing various forms of communication to contribute to accountability and overall performance
- Post-graduation transition – Affirming executive functioning skills required for college and beyond
Eligibility and Schedule:
- Open to all 9th-12th grade students.
- Scheduled during an off period with drop-in access during other off periods.
- Optional support available before and after school by appointment: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Annual Fee: $2,400 (pro-rated midyear enrollment available upon request)
Registration:
Parish Lab Learning Specialists
Erika Hardy, M.Ed.
Erika Hardy, M.Ed., is an educator with over 10 years of experience in inclusive education. She has worked in public and private schools across the U.S. and internationally, including the American School of Guatemala, where she helped build the Learning Support program for Middle and Upper School. Now in her third year at Parish Episcopal, Erika developed the Middle School Lab curriculum, focusing on executive functioning and study skills. She holds a master’s degree in special education and is passionate about fostering inclusive communities, promoting global citizenship, and helping students thrive academically and emotionally.
Rachael McNeely, M.Ed., CALP
Rachael McNeely brings a wealth of diverse teaching experience to her role as a Learning Specialist in the Parish Lab program. With a background in academic coaching, executive functioning support, and social-emotional development, Rachael is dedicated to providing individualized instruction that empowers students to reach their full potential. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from the University of Colorado and a master’s in education from Christian Brothers University. Rachael’s passion for holistic education and her commitment to fostering inclusive, growth-oriented learning environments drive her work with students, families, and colleagues.