Learning Disabilities Association of Kingston
LDAK is a charitable volunteer support group in Kingston, Ontario for people with learning disabilities, their families, and those who work with or employ persons with learning disabilities. We provide information, support and resources for interested community members.
MISSION
Our mission is to provide leadership in learning disabilities advocacy, research, education and services, and to advance the full participation of children, youth and adults with learning disabilities in today’s society.
We value promoting positive change through innovation, strategic partnerships, credible advocacy, participating in informing public policy; and educating through quality products and services.
Our Core Objectives
RAISE AWARENESS: To raise awareness of learning disabilities and strategies for helping, across the broader community.
ASSIST INDIVIDUALS: To assist individuals with Learning Disabilities, and their support network, through education, and advocacy support and training.
PROGRAMMING: To facilitate effective programming for individuals with learning disabilities, in areas of unmet community needs.
PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
Community Education Sessions
LDAK sponsors free education sessions or workshops on topics of interest and relevance to the LD community. Sessions are led by a wide range of individuals, including local professionals, teachers, and members of the Learning Disabilities Association. Past topics have included how to understand student Individual Education Programs (IEPs), transitioning from one level of school to another, student advocacy, and overviews of different kinds of learning disabilities and attention disorders.
Volunteer-led LD/ADHD Awareness Sessions
LDAK offers individual presentations by volunteers from the health care and teaching sectors as part of our mission to increase awareness of issues related to Learning Disabilities and Attention Disorders. The primary focus is on the nature and presentation of LD / ADHD, the impact on individuals and families, as well as available resources. Presentations are open to the public, and may include participation in community resource fairs, school-sponsored open houses, and on-demand LDAK hosted events.
Referral / Advocacy Assistance
For parents of students with LD / ADHD who may need psycho-educational or other assessments, LDAK provides referral information (local psychologists, available community resources, etc.) and insight into the identification process. If needed, LDAK can also provide Advocacy Assistance on the Identification Placement and Review Committee (IPRC) in direct communication with parents / guardians of the students involved.
SEAC (Special Education Advisory Committee) Representation
LDAK is represented on the Limestone District School Board (LDSB) Special Education & Advisory Committee (SEAC) that meets monthly to discuss ongoing concerns, school initiatives, and Ministry updates relating to Special Education for students with disabilities (including LD / ADHD) enrolled in the public school system. SEAC meetings provide an opportunity for representatives of different community organizations to have input in the direction and implementation of our children’s education.
Annual LD / ADHD Conference Workshop
Every year LDAK hosts a workshop on a current topic of interest to the LD / ADHD community featuring keynote speakers, topical break-out sessions, and networking opportunities for individuals with LD / ADHD, their families, and various professionals involved in the lives of students and adults with LD / ADHD. The workshop offers important insights into current research in the field, different perspectives from teachers, therapists, healthcare professionals, and inspirational success stories “from the trenches.”
OUR BOARD AND STANDING COMMITTEES
Current President
Helen Simson
Past President
Djenana Jalovcic
Treasurer
Pat Dudley
Board Members at Large
Gail Eaton-Smith
Ian Matheson
Tyla Miller
Alexander Stephen
Sara Thomas
Sabine Thungu
Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) representatives:
Limestone District School Board
• Helen Simson
• Gail Eaton-Smith (alternate)
Algonquin and Lakeshore:
• TBD
Special thanks to our funders and contributors for their support of the LDAK and for making a difference in the lives of adults and children with learning disabilities and their families.
