Driving Education Equity

The Shadow Project partners with schools to increase educational opportunities for the 1 in 5 children with learning and attention challenges. Students develop strong academic habits, master social emotional skills critical for academic and life success, and gain up to two years in their reading ability.

School programs are fully adapted for remote/hybrid learning
and feature culturally responsive, trauma informed training for educators.

“The Shadow Project is a vital partner. Our kids have the tools to access learning, and our teachers have the training to help them. That’s how you empower children.”

Tamala Newsome
Retired Principal, Portland Public Schools

Proven Programs that Empower Students to Succeed

GOAL SETTING

Equips special education teachers with a powerful curriculum and resources that put students in the driver’s seat of their own education. As students work towards ambitious goals, they build confidence, motivation, and perseverance — positive habits that will last a lifetime.

Student & Mentor Laughing in the Classroom

READING MENTORING

Pairs children with assistive technology designed for their needs that makes books come alive, plus trained mentors who encourage their progress. This powerful combination leads to increased comprehension, proficiency and a newfound love of reading.

SENSORY SPACES

Provides social emotional supports, such as sensory tools, weighted blankets and movement courses that reduce the impact of trauma, anxiety, and frustration. In this soothing environment, students master skills of calm and focus, so they can fully engage in learning.

“The Shadow Project's Sensory Space program increases our district's capacity to respond to social-emotional needs from a strengths-based, multicultural perspective.”

Dr. Paul Coackley
Superintendent, Centennial School District

Student Outcomes

By collaborating with teachers, The Shadow Project helps students strengthen academic and social emotional skills critical to succeed in school and in life.

READING

of students increase at least 1 grade level in reading, improving likelihood of high school graduation

SELF MANAGEMENT

of students improve self regulation, boosting children’s ability to pay attention and participate in class, and decreasing behavior that disrupts learning

MOTIVATION

of teachers report students are more motivated to reach academic goals, and they believe in their ability to succeed

“I have seen most of my 4th and 5th graders become readers and decode at grade level.”

Beth Brod
Special Education Teacher, Portland Public Schools

Proud and College-Bound

In 5th grade, John was only pretending to read. Today, he plans to become an architect. Watch his story.

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Reading Mentor Timber Joey Makes Books Come Alive

“Helping kids to realize their potential is a very special experience.”

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Why Equity Matters

The Shadow Project directly addresses racial inequity by addressing educational inequity. Children of color are overrepresented among students in special education classes.

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