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 with UBC show that LDS RISE students are progressing on average by up to an astounding 1.5 grade levels each year and reporting significant increases in 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 many years of experience working with ESL learners and students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Evalyn is committed to creating inclusive learning environments. She holds a Bachelor’s in Secondary Education, a Master’s in Teaching English Language Arts, and a PhD in Reading Education, and continues to expand her knowledge in TESL. She brings this blend of lived experience and professional expertise to her role at LDS.
See Evalyn’s full bioFeatured Programs
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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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Four Days of Impactful Engagement Across BC
Our team is on the move! See what our incredible team was up to May 6-9, collaborating, learning, and sharing valuable insights to make an impact across BC.
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What’s New in the 2025-26 School Year
Get ready for the 2025–2026 school year and another year of RISE One-to-One Instruction at LDS. Please review the important updates, including changes to our fee structure, facility expansion, and information systems.
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Support for the Filipino community
In the wake of the tragic events at the Lapu-Lapu Festival, we have compiled a list of credible support organizations for those impacted. If you or someone you know is grieving, recovering, or in need of care, these services are here to help. We encourage anyone affected to reach out — you are not alone, and support is available.
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