Supporting Children with Low Academic Achievement 

In this episode, Dr. Ray Christner and Paul Wagner speak with Dr. Steven Shaw, associate professor at McGill University, to discuss practical strategies for supporting students with low academic achievement who do not qualify for special education services. Based on his book, Reaching and Teaching Students Who Don’t Qualify for Special Education, Dr. Shaw presents evidence-based interventions that target the “missing middle”—students who fall between typical performance and eligibility for specialized support. The conversation emphasizes the importance of direct instruction in executive functioning and academic motivation, encouraging mental health professionals and educators to implement systemic, developmentally informed approaches. This episode offers valuable tools for inclusive practice and is ideal for professionals seeking to strengthen their support for diverse learners while meeting continuing education requirements.