Switzer Learning Center proudly announces Connor Hartwell as the newly appointed Board Chair. He is a distinguished professional serving as one of the Principal Advisors at Hartwell Financial Services. Mr. Hartwell has served on the Switzer Board for 4 years and brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his role as Board Chair. His professional insight is reinforced by his Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation, Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA®) designation, and an inactive Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license. Mr. Hartwell earned his bachelor’s degree in economics and accounting from UC Santa Barbara and has extensive experience in public accounting and private wealth management. In his spare time, Mr. Hartwell treasures moments with his wife, Alex, and their daughters, Gramercy and Harlowe.
Jeremy Deming, CEO of Switzer Learning Center, expressed confidence in the new leadership, highlighting the crucial role of exceptional leadership in the organization’s success. He stated, “As the CEO at Switzer Learning Center, I understand the critical importance of having exceptional leadership on our Board of Directors. The strength of a nonprofit organization hinges on the caliber of its staff and Board combined. With Connor at the helm of our Board of Directors, I am assured of our organization’s capacity to expand and effectively impact the children, teens, and young adults we serve.”
Looking ahead, Mr. Hartwell emphasized his commitment to advancing the mission and vision of the organization, particularly in terms of inclusivity and empowerment. “Stepping into the role of Board Chair fills me with excitement and determination. I am eager to continue advancing the vision we have set forth: to empower the students in our community to thrive. Collaborating with fellow Board members, staff, and community supporters, I envision leading us toward growth, prosperity, and enduring impact. Together, I am confident that we can unleash the potential within each student, nurturing resilience, curiosity, and a sense of purpose. As the new Board Chair, I am resolute in propelling our mission and vision for inclusivity and empowerment forward. I am enthusiastic about exploring new pathways for growth, forging collaborative partnerships, and introducing innovative programs to further the support we provide to our students, ensuring that we remain at the vanguard of educational and clinical best practices.”
For further information about Switzer Learning Center and its mission to support students with special needs, please visit www.switzercenter.org.
May 29, 2024 – We’re thrilled to announce that the Domestic Harmonizer Program (DHP), our Peace Education initiative in the United States, has recently entered into a new partnership with the Switzer Learning Center (SLC). This collaboration aims to introduce our restorative practices to the center’s educators and students. The Switzer Learning Center caters to students who have encountered trauma and adversity, including behavioral issues, learning challenges, and hail from the foster care system. Through this collaboration, we intend to bring the DHP’s expertise in conflict resolution and transformative social-emotional learning to enhance the well-being of the student population.
“Our partnership with the Whitaker Peace & Development Initiative will be instrumental in fostering a culture of peace and understanding on our campus. The last training session was incredibly impactful, as it equipped our staff with valuable tools to promote conflict resolution and social harmony. In the next few years, we look forward to further strengthening this partnership and empowering our community to become active agents of positive change,” said Dr. Sylvia Landaverde, Ed.D., MPA, Director of People & Culture at the SLC.
On March 15, we launched the partnership with a training session for all staff and educators at Switzer Learning Center. The workshop focused on the foundations of conflict, understanding educator’s personal conflict styles, and concluded with an action-based dialogue that encouraged educators to share their own stories and solutions to a challenge that they experience at their school site.
“WPDI is pleased to launch this unique partnership with Switzer Learning Center, whose dedication to innovative learning solutions and commitment to student success aligns perfectly with our work,” said Monya Kian, WPDI’s DHP Program Director. “We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Switzer, and supporting them in implementing our peace education tools and having a meaningful impact in the school community.”
The profound understanding of conflict at an emotional level that the DHP program brings to the table has been very inspiring for coordinators at the SLC. This is underlined by Mr. Joshua Ortega, the center’s Professional Development Coordinator: “The Conflict Resolution Education program offered by the Whitaker Peace & Development Initiative left a profound impact on me. Beyond acquiring practical skills, it fundamentally shifted my perspective on conflicts. Here’s what I took away from the training: firstly, I learned the immense value of empathy and active listening. Rather than approaching conflicts with judgment, I now strive to understand others’ viewpoints. This skill has proven invaluable in personal disagreements and community disputes alike. Secondly, the training equipped me with de-escalation techniques. When tensions rise, I can defuse situations effectively, finding common ground and preventing escalation.Thirdly, communication skills became a focal point. I discovered the power of clear, assertive communication — a vital tool for resolving conflicts constructively. Additionally, I embraced the principles of nonviolent communication. Lastly, the WPDI program emphasized the long-term impact of conflict resolution. It’s not merely about quick fixes; it’s about creating lasting peace. I now feel a sense of responsibility to pass on these skills to others, contributing to a global culture of peace. In summary, WPDI’s approach encourages us to actively choose peace, recognizing that conflicts can be opportunities for growth and positive change.”
The partnership between WPDI and the Switzer Learning Center promises to be highly beneficial to students. Given the diversity of the student body, the center’s staff faces unique challenges on a daily basis. They are educators and alsomentors, expected to navigate the complexity of individual situations adeptly. By integrating WPDI’s Conflict Resolution Education curriculum, the staff can enhance their support for students, fellow colleagues, and parents. “This collaboration not only strengthens the educators’ abilities but also fosters an environment where students can flourish academically and socially. Together, they are shaping a future where everyone can believe, achieve, and thrive,” said Janina Gricius, M.A., LMFT, ART-BC, School Therapist.
The DJ program will provide an engaging opportunity for neurodivergent students to explore their creativity, build confidence, and develop new skills.
TORRANCE, CA, UNITED STATES, August 29, 2023/EINPresswire.com/ — Switzer Learning Center, a nonprofit organization that provides individualized learning programs and therapeutic support for neurodivergent and special needs youth, has announced the start of a new programmatic partnership with The DJ Coach. This program will introduce DJ (disc jockey) education into Switzer’s after-school Arts Enrichment Program to empower and cultivate a deep appreciation for music within the special needs community that Switzer serves.
The Start to DJ program will occur on Tuesdays and Thursdays, starting Thursday, September 14, 2023. Sessions will be held during after-school hours from 4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. at Switzer Learning Center’s campus in Torrance. The program is open to all neurodivergent students in the Greater Los Angeles area and offered at no cost to Switzer Learning Center’s nonpublic school students.
The program’s ultimate goal is to provide a unique and exciting opportunity for neurodivergent students to engage, explore their creativity, build confidence, and develop new skills while having fun.
“We are thrilled to partner with DJ Hapa and The DJ Coach to offer this exciting program to our students,” said Jeremy Deming, Switzer Learning Center’s Chief Executive Officer. “Our mission is to educate diverse minds, build social confidence, and create a path to independence, and we believe this program will help us further that mission.”
The Start to DJ program will be facilitated by experienced DJ instructors who specialize in working with students in schools across Southern California and beyond. The curriculum will focus on the fundamentals of DJ techniques including mixing, scratching, as well as basic music theory, but will also give students a glimpse into entrepreneurship and transferable soft skills that are necessary in a creative industry. Students will be working towards creating their very own live mixtapes, which they will perform and share at a culmination event in December.
“We are excited to work with Switzer Learning Center to provide this unique opportunity to students with special needs,” said Yamani Watkins, spokesperson for The DJ Coach. “We believe that music has the power to bring people together and help individuals express themselves in new and creative ways, and we look forward to seeing the impact this enrichment program will have on students who learn in a unique way.”
For more information about the program, please email advancement@switzercenter.org. Both Switzer Learning Center and The DJ Coach look forward to providing this unique and collaborative opportunity to neurodivergent students in Torrance and surrounding communities.
Switzer Learning Center, is a CA state-certified nonpublic school in Los Angeles that caters to students with special needs and learning differences. Our school, located in Torrance, is dedicated to providing exceptional education and support to students aged 10-22 through our Middle School, High School, and Adult Transition educational programs; Arts Enrichment Programming; and Therapeutic Support. And, we partner with multiple school districts across the county.
At Switzer Learning Center, we understand that every student has unique needs. That’s why we offer a range of programs that are tailored to meet the specific needs of each student. Our Arts Enrichment Programming, which includes the Learn to DJ program starting this fall, provides students with opportunities to explore their creativity and develop new skills. We also offer Social Skills Programs, such as the PEERS Social Skills Program, to help students develop the skills they need to build positive relationships with their peers. Our low student to instructor/aide ratios ensure that every student receives the individual attention they need to thrive. Our team of credentialed teachers, classroom support providers, board-certified professionals, and school therapists and counselors are dedicated to providing the highest quality education and support to our students. At Switzer Learning Center, we believe that learning should be fun and engaging. That’s why we take our students on community-based intervention and educational visits to local museums, parks, restaurants, movies, and more. We also provide iPads and computers for student learning and STEM curriculum. We understand that getting to and from school can be a challenge for many families. That’s why we offer student pick-up and drop-off services to make the process as easy and stress-free as possible.
If you’re looking for a nonpublic school that provides exceptional education and support for students with special needs, look no further than Switzer Learning Center. Contact us today to learn more about our programs and how we can help your child thrive at 310.328.3611 or email Advancement at switzercenter.org.
Art Enrichment Program Launches in Torrance, CA for Students with Special Needs
TORRANCE, CA, UNITED STATES, May 1, 2023/EINPresswire.com/ — Switzer Learning Center Arts Enrichment Program for students with Special Needs launched programming for neurodivergent and differently-abled students in L.A. County on April 03, 2023.
The Center provides educational, therapeutic, and social skills programs for individuals ages ten and up with special needs. In this new, arts-focused program, students will learn about, experience, and create through hands-on art projects that will measure and evaluate changes in students’ motivation toward learning and achievement in core subjects utilizing teaching strategies that best promote learning through the arts. The arts program occurs after school with special programming hours offered during school break periods and is offered at no cost to Switzer students. There are plans to expand programming for all neurodivergent community members. Activities will be held directly on Switzer Learning Center’s campus in Torrance, CA.
Funding for the program is provided by ARP EANS, which aids eligible non-public schools in addressing the effects of learning loss during COVID-19. Community supporters include Los Angeles L.A. County Supervisor Janice Hahn, Torrance Refining Company, and the California Arts Council (CAC). “As a community partner for many decades, and supporter of STEAM education, we were excited to provide $10,000 in seed funding to support Switzer’s vision to enhance their student’s learning experience through creative expression,” said Barbara Graham, Torrance Refinery Community Relations Manager.
The addition of arts programming offers opportunities that further reinforce Switzer Learning Center’s commitment to making high-quality programming accessible to all. The program aims to enhance student’s learning experience through innovative and creative programs. “I am pleased to support Switzer Learning Center’s Arts Enrichment program. I’m hopeful that this new program will help Switzer students build creativity and confidence, learn new ways to express themselves, and connect with their peers through music and art projects,” said Supervisor Janice Hahn. “Arts education is more important now than ever, and this program is an excellent addition to Switzer’s programming, not only during the regular school year but during break times when students need access to engaging activities.”
The Switzer Learning Center serves as a leader in the field of special needs education. Its work began under Dr. Janet Switzer’s direction in 1966. At that time, the Switzer Center was the first educational center to offer educational intervention programs to individuals on the Autism spectrum.
A series of Art Enrichment programs for neurodivergent and special needs students will be open to the public in the Summer of 2023. Visit www.SwitzerCenter.org for more information.
Funds from the gala will support the Center’s educational and therapeutic support programs for neurodivergent and special needs young people in L.A. County.
TORRANCE, CA, UNITED STATES, December 7, 2022 /EINPresswire.com/ — Switzer Learning Center, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to nurture neurodivergent and special needs young people to achieve success in school, believe in themselves and thrive as independent adults, hosted its first-annual Speakeasy Soirée philanthropic gala, on Saturday, December 3.
This year’s theme, Speakeasy Soirée, was a stunning success that showcased a sense of elegance and Speakeasy ambiance at the Shade Hotel in Redondo Beach. Guests dressed in their finest prohibition-themed costumes enjoyed hosted cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, a gourmet dinner, fabulous silent and live auction items, and speakeasy entertainment. At the Aprés Party on the Sky Level, D.J. Hapa set the vibe, and guests danced the night away. The Center raised about $50,000 during the event, benefiting the neurodivergent and special needs young people the organization serves throughout L.A. County.
“We were impressed and grateful at the turnout and amount of support we received,” said Jeremy Deming, CEO of Switzer Learning Center. “With little time, a small crew, and lots of hopes and dreams…our talented staff and event committee members were able to build a foundation for what will be the event not to miss in the South Bay region of L.A.”
This year’s gala honored donors, including the Marcil Family Foundation and co-founder Judy Borck, with Annual Fund Patron distinctions for their contributions over the years. Their support has significantly helped Switzer Learning Center to further its mission and to improve the educational and therapeutic services provided to neurodivergent and special needs students in grades 5-12.
Long-time Switzer Learning Center supporter and former Board Chair Barbara Graham, Community Relations Manager at Torrance Refining Company, was delighted to attend.
“It was an exciting evening for our Torrance Refining team, who enjoyed the spirit of the prohibition theme,” said Graham. “Beyond the fun, we were mesmerized by an alumni’s meaningful testimony emphasizing his success derived from attending Switzer and the importance of having such a life-changing organization in our community.”
Switzer Learning Center seeks volunteers interested in serving on the 2023 Events Committee. More information about 2023 events and details on how to get involved can be found at www.switzercenter.org.
Torrance, California – August 8, 2022 – Switzer Learning Center has been honored to have remarkable Board Chairs who progress the organization while remaining true to our mission and core values. Barbara Graham completed her second year as Board Chair in July this year. Barbara has been a powerful voice on our Board of Trustees, connected Switzer to multiple resources throughout the South Bay community (including her employer Torrance Refining Co.), and expresses an abundance of passion for the Switzer mission wherever she goes. She was recently recognized for her public service by receiving the Torrance Chamber of Commerce’s 2021 Impact Award and the 2019 Inspirational Leader Award. Barbara has handed over the reins of Board Chair to Anthony P. Bozanic. However, she will remain on the Board as Immediate Past Chair and continue to play active roles on various committees. With her attention to detail and community-focused mindset, we are grateful to have her continued support at Switzer Learning Center.
Switzer Learning Center is pleased to announce that Anthony P. Bozanic has stepped into the role of Board Chair for the next two years. Anthony Bozanic is an Audit and Accounting Partner for PDM, LLP, and has been working with Switzer Learning Center for over 28 years. With his sheer determination and heart for giving back, he is a role model for staff, students, and the community. We are thrilled to be guided by Anthony’s leadership.
About Switzer Learning Center
At Switzer Learning Center, we promote equity in education by providing individualized learning programs paired with clinical support tailored to each student so they can believe in themselves, succeed in school, and thrive as independent adults. Since 1966, Switzer Learning Center’s co-educational, nonpublic, special education school and clinical services have served thousands of children, teens, and young adults with mild to severe learning, social, emotional, and behavioral challenges. At our nonpublic school, students in grades 5-12 work with a highly trained team of credentialed special education teachers, licensed speech and language pathologists, art therapists, certified Crisis Prevention Intervention specialists, and other related service providers dedicated to helping students achieve academic, vocational and personal goals unattainable in conventional educational settings. Learn more about Switzer Learning Center at www.switzercenter.org.
PRESS CONTACT
Talia Sandoval
Director of Development & Marketing
310-328-3611 x332
Tsandoval@switzercenter.org
Switzer Learning Center PEERS® Social Skills Group Training
PEERS® (Program for the Enrichment and Education of Relational Skills) evidence-based social skills program for Young Adults (Ages 18-24). The 16-week curriculum focuses on skills related to making and keeping friends, dating, and managing peer conflict and rejection. This intervention was developed at UCLA by Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson and is available for registration until August 19, 2022. Classes begin August 24, 2022. Email jgricius@switzercenter.org for details.
Sessions begin August 24, 2022.
- 1
- 2