Learning Differences

Wednesday, September 08, 2010

"'It does not matter where you came from, you can always change your path and find the light in your life.'

This quote means to me that we can change the paths of many kids who are headed towards failure and self defeat. We can change these paths by intervention that makes a difference in their lives. A lighthouse is a guiding light to all in a storm. I love lighthouses and thus this quote speaks volumes."

-Christine Hannon, Discovery Teacher

Ms. Hannon has taught Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grades. She says she has always felt a burning desire to help the underdog find success. When the opportunity came to become an educational therapist, she jumped at the chance. She says as a therapist she can see the changes take place and revel in her students' successes.

Learning Differences The Discovery Program at St. Matthew’s School At Saint Matthew’s School, we view all students as unique individuals designed by God. We implemented the Discovery Program to serve students with exceptional needs that require supplemental services and accommodations in the classroom. We use the methods designed by the National Institute for Learning Development. This is a program consisting of individual Educational Therapy, which allows SMS to make Catholic education possible for students with diverse learning needs and learning difficulties. These children have an average to superior intelligence, but struggle in the regular classroom due to many reasons such as: perception, processing speed, working memory, and fluency. The goal of our program is to move the student toward independence and success in the regular classroom and to realize his/her God given abilities. Educational Therapy consists of several options: two 80-minute sessions (Most Recommended Option), two 45-minute sessions,( Usually for students getting ready to dismiss from traditional therapy) or four 40-minute sessions (for younger students). The program that is best suited for your child will be based upon learning needs and weaknesses. The sessions are scheduled during the school day. Sessions begin as early as 7:30. Enrollment is an annual agreement with an additional tuition. If you are interested in the Discovery Program at Saint Matthew’s, please contact the school office at 757-420-2455 or email our program coordinator, Dr. Lei Ann Galvez at lgalvez@smsvb.net or assistant program coordinator, Mrs.Christine Hannon at lvlighthses@cox.net.