Letter from NCLD (LD News: November 2006)

Dear Supporters and Constituents,

Over the past 30 years, NCLD has proudly advanced the LD cause on behalf of children and adults. It's important to note that behind every great step forward are many talented, persevering individuals who work to make change possible.

This month, we recognize the accomplishments of one such individual, Dr. Joyce Bannerot, Principal of Popham Elementary School in Del Valle, Texas and the recipient of NCLD's 2006 Bill Ellis Teacher Preparation Award.  Dr. Bannerot has served students with learning challenges since 1971 as a teacher, program director, and administrator. Through her leadership, Popham Elementary has made a commitment to using data to support instructional decisions, implemented a system of grade level teams who problem-solve and adjust instruction to meet the needs of students not working at grade level expectations, and developed an inclusion model that serves more than three-fourths of the school's identified special education students in mainstream classes. Popham serves 860 diverse, high-risk students in grades PK-6, with 75% of the student population living below the poverty level and 30% students not enrolled for an entire school year.

As we move into our 31st year, we continue to rely on the outstanding efforts of leaders like Joyce Bannerot to take the work that we at NCLD do on a national scale and implement it where it really matters -- in the classroom. Without them, change would not be possible.

Wishing you a happy Thanksgiving holiday,

James H. Wendorf
Executive Director
National Center for Learning Disabilities, Inc. 

The National Center for Learning Disabilities is listed by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. All gifts made to NCLD are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. I hope that you consider making a contribution to NCLD today and thank you in advance for your generosity. NCLD greatly appreciates your support of our work!