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By Cindy Kilburn
STUDENTS come in all shapes and sizes – with a
myriad of learning needs.
One of the most significant departments in Pacific
Academy Primary School is the Learning Support Program (LSP). The primary
role of the centre is to help children succeed.
Some of the challenges we see are from students who are
deaf, autistic, physically challenged, dyslexic, struggling academically,
experiencing social difficulties or just having a bit of difficulty
learning a new skill or concept.
Students may receive assistance individually, or in
small groups. From remedial (extra instruction in an area of difficulty) to
enrichment (an extra challenge in an area of strength), the range of
support is vast and varied.
Some students come frequently, and others occasionally.
Some are there for months, others for days or weeks. Some receive academic
assistance; others need counselling. Some require speech therapy or
physiotherapy; others need coaching on how to make and keep friends. Some
need help with reading, others with writing or math.
Ben was a student who struggled with school
expectations, and considered his time at school a daily jail sentence. His
academic performance was low, and he found it difficult to interact
appropriately with his peer group. Why?
Ben had dyslexia, and Attention Deficit Disorder. With
a lot of support on an ongoing basis, he learned strategies that enabled
him to cope with his particular challenges. It gave the staff a great deal
of joy to see the changes in him: a bounce in his step, a sparkle in
his eyes, a lift to the shoulders, healthy friendships, and an inner
confidence born of success.
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Did he still have difficulties? Of course. But
Ben knew he no longer had to face them alone. He was surrounded by a
team of people who truly cared about him, and were there to lend him a hand
whenever it was needed.
The LSP is available to all students. Many families who
didn’t think it was possible for their child to complete the
necessary curriculum required for graduation have learned otherwise.
Ben’s family is one of them.
They were there to cheer when Ben walked across the
stage in cap and gown, to receive his diploma. And the cheering
hasn’t stopped, either. Ben now has a job and is attending
university. The future is an open door for him!
The success stories are numerous. As one parent put it:
“My child’s learning support tutor is his biggest cheerleader
– always positive, always enthusiastic, always
encouraging!”
February 2009
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