Neuroaffirming Learning Support
Our Research-informed Individualized Student Education (RISE) meets the unique needs of each individual learner with learning or brain-based differences, aged 3 to adult.
What We Do
Through our one-to-one specialized learning support, LDS empowers unique learners to recognize their own strengths, gain confidence, and achieve lifelong confidence and success inside and outside the classroom. In “Josh’s story” Jennifer and Donna share their son’s story, and how working with LDS helped him realize his potential and discover his superpowers.
Why LDS?
Since 1970, LDS has been delivering transformational support programs that span the full development cycle and target student-specific learning needs. Our expanding RISE programs are progress monitored and aligned with BC’s Core Competencies and research-based curricula. They are designed to be holistic, individualized, inclusive, technology-enabled, and classroom integrated. With the support of our education and technology partners, donors, corporate sponsors, and community partners, we can meet the unique needs of all learners including those with suspected or diagnosed learning disabilities (clinical term) like dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, processing disorders, and learning challenges that may be related to ADHD or to ASD/autism.
Experienced, specialized instructors
Our highly qualified, passionate instructors include BC-Certified Teachers, Special Education Assistants, Orton-Gillingham certified instructors, Speech Language Pathologists, Inclusive Education Instructors, Occupational Therapists, Certified Early Childhood Educators and more!
Individualized, resource-intensive support
A customized learning plan is designed for each student by our specialized team. This includes our Lead Case Manager and a carefully matched instructor.
Technology-enhanced
We consistently integrate leading assistive technologies in innovative ways into our customized programs to improve and more deeply personalize the learning process for our students.
Proven results
Our multi-year studies conducted with UBC show that LDS RISE students are catching up to their general classroom peers on average by up to an astounding ½ grade level per year with significant increases in self-confidence and self-esteem.
Accessible and inclusive
We design our physical and virtual spaces and programs with inclusivity top-of-mind. Our sliding fee scale ensures that students of all ages and backgrounds can access our learning support.
Our Education Partners
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UBC Faculty of Education
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University of Waterloo Social and Intelligent Robotics Research Lab
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UBC Psychological Services and Counselling Training Centre
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Featured Instructor
With over 28 years of teaching experience as a special educator, Joann wants to see school systems where people with disabilities are given access to learning, sharing and being. Joann holds five degrees and several other certifications, as well as decades of lived experience that she brings to her role at LDS.
See Joann’s full bioFeatured Programs
Open
RISE One-to-One Instruction
Our comprehensive learning support is personalized to meet each student’s learning goals. Get support in foundational skills – literacy and/or math and school skills – executive function, self-regulation for learning, studying, homework and coursework.
- Ages
- 5 – 18
- Where
- East Vancouver & North Vancouver Learning Centres, online, on LDS Access, or at schools
- Dates/Times
- Monday to Friday 9 am – 7 pm, Saturdays 9 am – 4 pm
Open
Early RISErs
Early RISErs is an early childhood education and intervention program with parent/guardian participation that is focused on equipping families with knowledge about their young child and their learning and development to date.
- Ages
- 3 – 5
- Where
- East Vancouver Learning Centre
- Dates/Times
- Fall, winter, and spring cohorts. Fall cohort on either Fridays 10 am – 12 pm or Saturdays 10 am – 12 pm
Open
Academic Assessment (KTEA-3)
The Kaufman Test of Educational Achievement, third edition (KTEA-3) is a Level-B academic assessment. It provides detailed information on a student’s reading, written expression, and mathematics performance.
- Ages
- 4 – 25
- Where
- Learning Centres
- Dates/Times
- Varying
- Application
- Open
News + Resources
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Neurodivergence in Women and Girls
If you missed this live workshop, watch the recording. Explore the unique experiences of neurodivergent women and girls, focusing on how societal and cultural factors shape their diagnoses, support, and challenges while fostering greater understanding and advocacy.
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Transitioning to High School: Dogwood Diploma versus Evergreen Certificate
Learn about the two main graduation pathways for learners in BC. Consider the best options for your child and the transition planning that will open doors and create opportunities.
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LDS Learning Profile in Squamish
Our LDS Access mobile classroom will be in Squamish the week of March 24, 2025 to provide valuable insights into your child’s academic and executive functioning strengths and stretches. Get an LDS Learning Profile and get support advocating for your child.
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