What Is A Learning Difference?
Do you have a different way of learning? Yes, you do. We all do.
Students who have been diagnosed with a learning difference—the term we prefer at Wheeler because we believe differences are not deficits—come to Hamilton often having challenging past school experiences. Their experience at the Hamilton School allows them to not only learn the skills and strategies necessary for academic success, but also to develop confidence, self-awareness, and self-advocacy- all of which are essential life skills.
In addition, our Hamilton School families are offered several ongoing education programming opportunities and resources as well as consistent opportunities to connect as parents and guardians of children with identified learning differences. An outreach branch of our School, The Hamilton Institute for Public Outreach and Advocacy, offers teacher training, conferences, and workshops for the public.
Identifying students with a learning difference is the start of the Hamilton enrollment process.
Resources to help you define a learning difference
- Dyslexia Fact Sheet
- Is My Child Dyslexic?
- What is Dysgraphia?
- The Hamilton School at Wheeler is a member of the International Dyslexia Association (IDA)
- RI Tutorial and Educational Services (RITES)
Lastly, for over 25 years, The Hamilton School at Wheeler has presented the Hamilton Life Achievement Award to a successful individual or group with an identified learning difference and has made an important impact in life. The 2023 Hamilton Life Achievement Award recipient was the famous marine archaeologist and explorer Dr. Robert Ballard, who also has dyslexia and attention variability. For more information about Dr. Ballard’s visit to the Hamilton and Wheeler School community, please click this link.
