If you ask any fourth or fifth grader at Westridge where to go for help on a tricky math problem, a quiet space to think, a spelling challenge, or a place to hang out at recess (accompanied with squishies, stickers, and treats!), they’ll likely point to Susi Pettersson’s room. 

A familiar face to many in the Lower School, Pettersson has been at Westridge since 2007, when she started as a fourth grade language arts and social studies teacher. This past year, Pettersson stepped into a new position as a learning resource support for fourth and fifth grade students and teachers.  

In this new role, Pettersson is directly embedded in the classroom environment as she joins fourth and fifth grade math and language arts classes weekly, working with small groups of students who need extra support—or an extra challenge!—and helping teachers build on their lesson plans and run baseline student assessments to track each student’s academic growth.  

Susi views her role as part of a larger vision at Westridge—one where learning support is not reserved for students who are struggling, but more integrated into Westridge’s culture of learning. “Kids learn in different ways, and Westridge really values that,” she said. “If we can teach students early how to ask for help, how to advocate for themselves, and seek support when they need it, we’re setting them up for lifelong success. That’s a skill they’ll use in middle school, high school, college, and beyond.” 

That support can take many forms, from small group math reviews and one-on-one reading check-ins to providing a quiet space for students who need accommodations. Pettersson meets regularly with teachers to discuss teaching plans—sometimes pulling small groups of students aside to dive deeper into a lesson, giving other students space to engage differently with the teacher, or splitting the class to make sure everyone gets individualized attention.  

With over a decade of classroom experience at Westridge, Susi has an exceptional understanding of the fourth and fifth grade curricula, which informs her approach to working with both students and teachers.  

Director of Lower & Middle School Dr. Zanita Kelly remarked: “As a longtime member of our faculty, Mrs. Pettersson brings a depth of expertise and wisdom … her gentle and compassionate approach, paired with her firm commitment to excellence, ensures that students feel supported and challenged. She is invaluable in monitoring progress and guiding growth, holding each learner to high standards while honoring them with the highest regard.” 

The ability to meet students at multiple levels—supporting and enriching their learning—is what makes Pettersson’s role so unique and what sets up Lower School students for success in Middle School and beyond.  

“Westridge students come from a variety of school backgrounds, and part of my job is helping us understand where each student is at the beginning of the year—and how they’re progressing,” she said. “It’s not about labeling students, but about really seeing them. What do they need? How do they learn best? And how can we support that?”