Kids come in all different shapes, sizes, and colors with brains that work in all different ways.
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Unfortunately some differences may cause problems in school. Kids who struggle need help but it’s not always easy to find.
Friends of Different Learners is a group of parents with children from preschool to adult who have been through the trenches and have years of experience navigating the Birmingham Public School District. We are a safe, judgement free place where families can share their concerns about their child’s challenges and we offer support, acceptance, advice and guidance.
Whether you need a hug, a shoulder to cry on, a supportive ear or information, we are here to help you figure out…
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Why does my child struggle?
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How/who/where to go for an assessment?
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How/who/where to find help?
Friends of Different Learners can Help!
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We don’t have all the answers but we will help and guide you to find assistance if your child struggles with: Reading, Writing, Math, Making Friends, Bullying, Behavior Issues, Organization, Emotional Regulation, Sensory Overload
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Click HERE to download our Mission Statement.
Friends of Different Learners is proud of the many volunteers who lend enthusiastic support, strong leadership, and heartfelt advocacy to our organization and community. Countless hours and boundless energy allow our many annual projects like the Appreciation Awards, Camp & Resource Fair, Disability Awareness Workshop, and LINKS to continue to flourish.
Executive Committee
The Executive Committee serves as the administrative unit of Friends.
Co-Presidents
Carrie Chapie & Stacie Makris
Co-Vice Presidents
Amy Slosar • Hilde Swain
Treasurer
Samantha Linden
Secretary
Contact us if interested
Past President
Jessica LaRose
Committee Chairs
Social Media
Catherine Henne-Lewandowski
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Building Reps & LINKS
Kathy Sinclair-Pearson
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Camp & Resource Fair
Disability Awareness Workshop
Denise Moore
Membership
Kristy Barrett
Social Media
Catherine Henne-Lewandowski
District Organizations Representatives
BPS PAC
Oakland PAC
PTSA Council
Advisory Committee
The Advisory Committee consists of past presidents and executive committee members selected annually by the current Executive Committee to serve in an advisory capacity.
Peggy Branch
Terri McCardell
Diana Moak
Denise Moore
Susan Nanry
Suzanne O'Leary
Karen Selby
Kathy Sinclair-Pearson
Debby Suris
Cheri Taunt
Cindy Trotta
Aryn Zwierzchowski
Building Representatives
The Annex
Please contact Friends if interested in becoming a Rep.
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BCS
Barb Crowley
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Berkshire Middle School
Please contact Friends if interested in becoming a Rep.
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Beverly Elementary
Jen Moore
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Bingham Elementary
Sara Grezlik
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Derby Middle School
Carrie Chapie
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Greenfield Elementary
Jessica LaRose
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Groves High School
Alicia Acey
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Harlan Elementary
Kelly Woloszyk
Midvale
Please contact Friends if interested in becoming a Rep.
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Pembroke Elementary
Jocelyn Cook
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Pierce Elementary
Trish Olevnik
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Quarton Elementary
Please contact Friends if interested in becoming a Rep.
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Seaholm High School
Please contact Friends if interested in becoming a Rep.
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West Maple Elementary, Please contact Friends if interested in becoming a Rep.
Friends was created, then known as Friends of Different Learners, as a...
Friends created the DAW...
Friends begins bringing awareness about...
Friends brought in the links program
Friends convinced Birmingham Public School System to pilot Sign Language in the High Schools.
