Supporting Students

The Role of an Intervention Teacher

When Amy Rosendin arrives at Sierra High each morning, she’s focused on one main goal: supporting students who are struggling or still adjusting to high school.

As an Intervention Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA), Ms. Rosendin’s job is to help identify and break down barriers to learning, unlocking the potential of all students. To achieve this, she meets with students 1 on 1 to better understand what may be causing absences, low grades, or behavioral problems and discuss possible solutions in a more personal, attentive way.

“The most common barrier I see is lack of motivation. This is especially common among freshmen—they don’t always understand that they have to pass classes to graduate. I approach this by showing them the graduation requirements and explaining how to earn a credit. I try to take the mystery out of high school”, Ms. Rosendin shares. “We also spend time visualizing goals and figuring out what can happen this week to help achieve longer-term goals.”

While each school day looks a little bit different, she always makes time to meet with students and review their progress through MUSD’s student data system.

Intervention Teachers are uniquely positioned to help students in a way that compliments the work of classroom teachers. Ms. Rosendin explains, “The biggest component of my job is listening to and talking with students. I get to know them 1 on 1 for longer periods than classroom teachers typically have time for. I don’t have curriculum to focus on or 33 other kids to keep on track while I focus on 1 student! I also have access to information that helps me understand a student’s history and where they are coming from.”

Ultimately, Ms. Rosendin’s role is centered on building relationships – Getting to know and understand students and their unique needs so she can determine the most appropriate plan.

“I let students know I am open to what they want to share, but I don’t push them. I let them know that I want to help them find their path, but they get to choose that path,” she shares. “I also work to show empathy and understanding by sharing my life experiences and struggles. Often when I open up, they open up as well.”

"When Ms. Rosendin reached out to let me know my son was struggling in Spanish, she had taken the time to research some details on him as a student. She knew he was participating in Football so the options she offered for tutoring took into consideration his practice schedule. She also touched base with my son at school and made sure he knew the different opportunities that were available to him for support. She even followed up a few times to make sure I knew we could reach out to her if we needed further assistance. Our family really appreciated her thorough follow up!" - Valerie, Parent of a Sierra High freshman

This school year, all high schools have an Intervention TOSA on campus. If your child would like to be connected with the Intervention Teacher, please reach out to your high school’s office.