The Ridge at Ben Lippen

Unlocking the mystery of dyslexia and revealing the transformative power of specialized instruction, this episode takes listeners deep into the world of neurodiversity through the lens of Ben Lippen School's innovative program, The Ridge. Mrs. Sarah Beth Helsley and Mrs. Sara Smithson, experts in Orton-Gillingham methodology, break down the complex realities of dyslexia with clarity and compassion. They offer a powerful analogy comparing the dyslexic reading experience to navigating a highway filled with potholes and detours – a vivid illustration that helps parents, educators, and community members understand the daily challenges these students face.The conversation dismantles harmful myths that have long surrounded dyslexia. Letters aren't actually "flipping" or "dancing" on the page, and most crucially, dyslexia has absolutely nothing to do with intelligence. In fact, many individuals with dyslexia possess extraordinary cognitive abilities and unique strengths, with approximately 35% of entrepreneurs identifying as dyslexic, including visionaries like Steve Jobs and Albert Einstein.What sets this discussion apart is its integration of faith and specialized education. The Ridge program stands as a testament to what's possible when schools embrace neurodiversity while maintaining their core values. Students can receive the specialized instruction they need without leaving their school community or sacrificing their faith-based education. As Smithson shares from her dual perspective as both an educator and mother of a child with dyslexia, "It's been a huge answer to prayer for my family."Whether you're a parent concerned about your child's reading development, an educator seeking to better support diverse learners, or simply someone interested in how schools can become more inclusive while staying true to their mission, this episode offers both practical insights and inspirational possibilities. Join us as we celebrate how each child is "fearfully and wonderfully made".