Tigers with Learning Differences are Empowered for Success (EFS)
What is EFS?
The Empowered for Success (EFS) Program is a four-year program designed to support and guide students with documented learning differences (i.e. cognitive, psychological, physical and medical conditions). Our program strives to empower students to become strong self-advocates and voice their support needs. Students in the EFS Program improve their self-determination skills by learning to make meaningful choices regarding their academic and personal goals. Our team offers regular check-ins to review student learning plans and teach students how to effectively utilize their accommodations based on their individual needs. Students are expected to meet the same academic standards as their peers, and they are often enrolled in Honors and AP classes. Our EFS scholars are gifted, highly motivated and dedicated to becoming active members of the Notre Dame community.
Tigers with Learning Differences are Empowered for Success
Final Exam Support for Tigers with Learning Differences
EFS Offers:
- Freshmen Intensive class
- Access to an EFS support page with resources
- Regular check-ins
- Academic support
- Collaborative meetings with students, parents and teachers (upon request)
- Review of student learning plans and accommodations
- Support technology
- Help with college applications
EFS Works to promote:
-
Executive functioning skills
-
Study skills
-
Test-taking skills
-
Ability awareness
-
Self-determination
-
Self-advocacy
-
Independence
Reading Support Program
Our EFS program provides equitable access for students who struggle with reading. Our EFS staff sets up each student with their own free account to Learning Ally where they are able to save Voice-to-Text or Classic Audio books to their library.
Customized Learning Plans
Students in the EFS program receive an NDB Learning Plan, which outlines each students strengths and areas of growth. Our EFS staff works together with students, families and teachers to determine appropriate accommodations that will provide equitable access to learning.
Newly Designed Learning Center
The newly designed EFS Learning Center provides our students with ample space to collaborate and a quiet room for students to self-regulate during challenging moments. The EFS Learning Center also includes a quiet testing room for alternate test setting accommodations. Our EFS staff works to maintain a welcoming and calming environment for our students.
EFS Team

Arlene Empleo
Associate Head of School for Student Services

Camilla Soto
EFS Coordinator