The Learning Center (TLC):
A Transformative Program-Within-a-School for Students with Dyslexia and other Language-Based Learning Differences
With over three decades of experience in the independent school world—from working with neurodiverse learners to general education and administration—my professional journey has recently converged on a truly special project at Prospect Sierra School.
Prospect Sierra is demonstrating incredible foresight and dedication by researching and implementing innovative approaches to serve a broader student population. As a consultant, I've had the pleasure of participating in strategic meetings with their inspiring administrators and admissions team, all focused on addressing the needs of an underserved group: students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences.
The leaders at Prospect Sierra have established The Learning Center (TLC), a unique school-within-a-school program. TLC is specifically designed for a small group of students diagnosed with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences.
What Makes TLC Exceptional?
Specialized Instruction: Core classes are taught by trained educators utilizing highly effective, research-based methodologies such as Orton Gillingham and Making Math Real. This targeted approach is crucial for equipping learners with language-based learning differences with essential academic tools.
Integrated Community: While receiving specialized support, TLC students remain fully integrated into the broader school community, participating in general school events, advisory programming, and specialist classes. This ensures a holistic and inclusive educational experience.
Mission-Aligned Fit: My role includes meeting and assessing prospective 5th and 6th-grade students to ensure they are a mission-aligned fit, poised to thrive both within the specialized TLC environment and the larger Prospect Sierra setting.
Future-Focused Growth: Following the upcoming opening year (2026-27), the program plans to expand to include older and younger students, establishing a comprehensive scope and sequence of learning support from third through eighth grade.
TLC is an unparalleled initiative focused solely on empowering students and providing them with the necessary skills for a successful transition to high school and beyond. The Prospect Sierra School team is professional, compassionate, and truly impressive in their commitment to student-centered education.
I highly encourage anyone interested in learning more about this groundbreaking program to reach out. Rolling admissions are available for TLC.