Instructional Support Team
CARE & SUPPORT FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS
At Christa McAuliffe Academy School of Arts and Sciences (CMASAS), we provide a personalized online learning experience designed to support each student’s individual needs, interests, and goals. In middle school, instructional support is a collaborative effort between two key roles: the Personalized Education Coach (PEC) and the Course Instructor (CI). Together, they provide one-on-one support in course planning, organization, academic progress and skill development.
PECs and CIs work together to nurture the whole student in a safe, caring, and student-centered environment. On average, our faculty have 15 years of experience in education, 5 years at CMASAS, and 50% hold post-graduate degrees—bringing both expertise and continuity to our program.
This personalized model allows students to shape their education around their strengths, interests, and learning style. Families appreciate the flexible schedule and the ability to customize coursework to fit their child’s goals and passions.
Personalized Support from PECs
Each middle school student is paired with a dedicated PEC, who acts as both mentor/advisor and academic guide. PECs work one-on-one with students to develop a Personalized Education Plan (PEP) that supports their learning style, strengthens key skills, and sets them up for success in high school and beyond.
PECs focus on:
- Goal setting and progress tracking
- Time management and organization
- Study skills and learning strategies
- Building student independence
PECs also play a leading role in identifying when course personalization is needed and collaborate closely with CIs to implement tailored strategies that support student success. Weekly one-on-one PEC meetings help students stay on pace, review progress, and practice executive functioning skills. PECs also lead weekly live homerooms that foster peer connection through games, discussions, and school updates.
COURSE INSTRUCTOR SUPPORT
Middle school students have subject-specific CIs for each course. These educators are experts in their fields and passionate about guiding students through their academic journey.
CIs reinforce, supplement, and expand on the asynchronous curriculum by:
- Answering content-specific questions
- Grading assignments with personalized feedback
- Providing alternative learning options and resources
- Collaborating with PECs to adapt content as needed
Students typically work with the same instructors across core subjects, allowing them to build strong academic relationships. CIs are available via email and video conferencing, and offer one-on-one support sessions to clarify difficult topics—not deliver live lectures. Students are encouraged to review lessons beforehand so sessions are focused, interactive, and effective.
STUDENT & PARENT PARTNERSHIP
Parental involvement remains critical during the middle school years. At CMASAS, parents are key members of the educational team. PECs provide regular updates and partner with families to help students transition toward greater independence—a vital part of preparation for high school.
As students progress, they are expected to take more ownership of their assignments, time management, and communication. This shift happens gradually, with ongoing guidance from both the PEC and parent, ensuring students build confidence and responsibility at their own pace.
To learn more, schedule a call or personalized tour!
CMASAS offers a flexible, mastery-based middle school program where students learn on their own schedule with personalized support from experienced educators. With the close collaboration of PECs, CIs, and families, students gain the tools they need to thrive in middle school—and beyond.