Kate Clougherty, Old Hickory Road, realized she need some help getting organized. She found Carrie Albert’s Learning Solutions, 650 Washington Road, and was coached in executive functioning, which gave her the tools she needed to make plans, solve problems and adapt to changing situations.

Now Clougherty, a junior at Mt. Lebanon High School, is giving back through Learning Solutions’ High School Helpers program, where high school students mentor younger learners in subjects such as math and writing while fostering the development of social and emotional skills. Clougherty now helps students with schoolwork and creates meaningful connections, something she finds especially rewarding.

“I really love connecting with the kids,” she said. “I love the bond we’ve built. It’s rewarding to see them grow and succeed.”

Albert, Parker Drive, has more than 30 years of experience in special education. Learning Solutions offers academic tutoring, executive functioning skills workshops and personalized special education advocacy for families. Her approach to educational support is hands-on and tailored to each student’s needs.

Learning Solutions provides more than just academic help. It offers services for students with learning disabilities. Albert helps families navigate the complexities of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and 504 Plans, which are critical for students with special needs.

“The 504 Plan and the IEP are critical tools for students with special needs,” Albert said. “I guide parents through the process of determining which plan is right for their child, and I make sure that the documentation is properly written and legally compliant.”

Clougherty helps three times a week, and has seen significant improvements in her own academic focus and performance. She credits Albert’s mentorship, as well as the support from fellow high school mentors, for helping her stay on track and improve her grades.

“My grades have really improved, because I’ve learned how to stay more focused and organized,” she explained. “The other high school helpers are also a big support. We help each other out, whether it’s editing essays or just offering advice on schoolwork. It’s like a little community.”

Wendy Clougherty, Kate’s mother, has seen firsthand how Carrie Albert’s Learning Solutions has transformed her daughter’s academic life. “Kate needed a little help with how to be organized and study effectively,” she explained. “Carrie has really helped her with that, and Kate’s grades have improved because of it.”

For more information, visit carriealbertslearningsolutions.com.