Meet Leslie, the Brains Behind Learnersaurus
In October, we'll be celebrating Learnersaurus' 10th Birthday! Over the last 10 years, Leslie Keast-Patch has changed the lives of hundreds of students, teaching them to read, write and spell. Here's how she did it:
How would you describe your work?
My work is awesome, inspiring and so rewarding. I am so fortunate to be able to work with some very interesting and incredible people and enhance the lives of others. Reading is a necessary skill and knowing and sharing the knowledge I have can change the outlook and opportunities for a person who would otherwise be unable to read. That's awesome!
What inspires you?
Every time I hear a story from a parent, teacher or student about how they are using my resources and programs, and that they are having success, I want to make more and share my knowledge to a wider audience.
How are the Learnersaurus programs and products evolving?
Learnersaurus has been an evolving creature, moving and changing with research, demand and technology. The more I learn, I can adapt and improve my resources. Learning to read requires the development of certain connections in the brain. We have used proven methodologies to support the development of these processes and skills with structured and explicit workbooks. Our coaches are trained specifically to use these practises.
Where do you find design inspiration for new products?
Listening to coaches, parents and students, reminds me that there is a need for ongoing development and variety of resources, the need for ongoing support is endless. Often a coach will ask about how to address a challenge that a student is experiencing and I will then see the need to design a new approach.
What has been the most rewarding part of running Learnersaurus?
Being able to do what I set out to do 10 years ago when I saw a need within the school system is a dream come true. I wanted to create programs and resources for people who found it difficult to learn to read. Seeing the success for hundreds of students over the years and now seeing the coaches I have trained being successful in following their passion is so rewarding. I have been so fortunate to have an incredible and talented family who have supported and encouraged me and helped me to achieve my goals and dreams. They are still a very big part of Learnersaurus. Overcoming the challenges and sustaining my passion is an ongoing learning process, but I love it. Whenever I feel like giving up, I just have to remember the smile on the face of one of my students (and their parents), when they pick up a book and read for the first time.
Get in touch to hear more about how Learnersaurus can help your learner.