DuBard School Now Enrolling for After-School Program Targeting Dyslexia

The DuBard School for Language Disorders at The University of Southern Mississippi is currently enrolling for an after-school program to serve young struggling readers.

The Language Enhancement and Achievement Program (LEAP) is designed for elementary students with challenges in reading, spelling and written language, who may or may not have a diagnosis of dyslexia. The after-school program includes three one-hour sessions per week beginning in January, 2015. Services are provided in small-group settings by paraprofessionals with extensive training in scientifically based reading approaches.

“I really enjoy the LEAP program because the students receive the specialized services they need, but can participate in a small group with their peers,” said DuBard School speech-language pathologist and LEAP coordinator Kelly Parker. “They encourage each other and learn from each other, and get to share in those special ‘ah-ha' moments that every student has.”

Because students learn best in one-on-one and small group instructional settings, spaces are limited and reserved on a first-come, first-serve basis. There is a fee for the service with limited scholarships available.

 “LEAP is beneficial for any student who is struggling with the written language, regardless of whether or not they have a diagnosis of dyslexia,” said Dr. Maureen Martin, director of the DuBard School. “Our goal is to address any communication issues at a young age, so students can be successful early on in their general education settings.”

The spring session of LEAP begins January 12. For additional information and to register, contact the DuBard School at 601.266.5223, dubardFREEMississippi or www.usm.edu/dubard.