The Center for Hope and Success
The Center of Hope and Success at Christian Heritage School offers a variety of educational and therapeutic support services for students with specific learning needs. Service models include consultation, coaching and test support, LIPS therapy, TEACH therapy, Focus therapy, Rx for Reading, resource classes, and full NILD (National Institute of Learning Development) therapy sessions depending on the individual needs of the student. Last year, a new peer tutoring program was implemented which pairs high school students with elementary students who need help to focus on their schoolwork. The high school aged peer tutor goes into the classroom at scheduled times to sit beside and assist a specific student while the grade level teacher is instructing the class.
Marget Sikes is the Director of Special Services and Program Coordinator for the Center of Hope and Success. She is a Level 3 trained NILD therapist. Vicki Higgins is a Level 2 trained therapist and works with the department half-time. Wendy Miller and Kristy Slocumb, Level 2 trained therapists, provide therapy on a part-time, contractual basis. Beth Davis, Speech and Language Pathologist with Dalton Public Schools, provides speech therapy through the department.
The past two school years, Christian Heritage has been the only participating school in Northwest Georgia in the state scholarship program for special needs students. Three students met the state criteria and CHS admission criteria and are enrolled with this new state funded scholarship.