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I went to the Learning Center for 4 years. When I first learned that I was dyslexic I was scared because I didn’t know what dyslexia was. I thought there was something wrong with me and I did not know what to do. It was very confusing for me. The teachers at my old school tried and tried to help me but I just couldn't get it. I thought I was stupid. I was 9 years old when I started to go to the Learning Center. At first I didn't want to go because I thought it was boring. But as I progressed I saw it was really helping me a lot. The Learning Center helped me gain confidence in myself. After passing the first level I wanted to read more because I knew I could do it. As I passed each level it felt like winning a gold medal in the Olympics! The Learning Center taught me how to read and break down difficult words. Because of what I learned I am able to go to the 8th grade, and I know that I will be able to keep up with my class. Because of the Learning Center, I know that I can do anything if I put my mind to it. It was hard for me to learn how to read, but I did it.

Kids picked on me because I was at a lower reading level. I felt stupid and dumb. I was very depressed. I hated to get up in the morning. I wanted to stay home and sleep all day or watch TV. I just couldn't face the world. I didn't want to see my teachers; I didn't want to do homework. On the first day I went to the Learning Center, they made me feel welcome. I got to meet all the other kids that had dyslexia. I saw some older kids that had been there for a while, and they said that it was really fun-it wasn't like school. From the 1st day I really started to like it a lot. When I started at the Learning Center I was 11. And I'm 14 now. I read more often, and I am happy when I read. I really enjoy it better. I understand what I'm reading. And I go to school and I do well now. And I get good grades. Before, I wasn't doing very well. I didn't put any effort in it. And now I put in tons of effort, and I get something out of it. I didn't think I could ever go to college or amount to anything. And now I can, and I want to go to college, and I want to have a good life. I want to be a teacher for kids with dyslexia. I want to show them what I learned. I want them to understand that they can do better in their lives, that they can move on. Dyslexia doesn't have to be the end of everything.

I wanted to share with you a success! You remember my daughter, Julie, who was (is) severely dyslexic and attended the center about four years ago...well, she is now a published poet! Her poem was nominated and included in the anthology attached. Then, more recently, a poem of Julie's received second place in a contest sponsored by our local women's club. Sometimes, I am so overwhelmed I could cry. I'm sure you know that feeling. I think Julie's experiences at the Center made all the difference. Remember when she couldn't even recognize letters? I'm just so grateful.

Words can not express how thankful I am for the work you and the Dyslexia Center has done for my son Charlie. My son’s inability to read caused so much stress and anxiety for him. Now that his Dyslexia has been identified, and he has been accepted into this program, a huge weight has been lifted off my heart. I am thrilled with the progress Charlie has made over the past year. Nothing warms my heart more than seeing my son pick up a book to read.

I would like to take a minute to thank you for all the help you have given our daughter. She was diagnosed as “Dyslexic” very early and it’s been a real struggle for all involved, but no more so than for our daughter. Throughout, your school has been tireless in its efforts to help us educate our daughter. For the last several years she has been attending your school and the results have been obvious. This year, in particular, huge strides were made. From her time with you and for everything you’ve done, we are eternally grateful. We will keep your school and its wonderful staff in our prayers. Thank you so much for your help over the past few years and for everything. It means so much for our family and especially our daughter Sophia.