Our Mission
Since 1989, Strategic Learning Centre has helped thousands of students become the best that they can be by teaching them how to learn.
Good marks are not the only end-goal. They’re just the beginning.
Academic and personal success are the foundation on which a child’s future life and personal fulfillment are built. We take this fundamental responsibility seriously, and for nearly 30 years have focused on equipping children with the tools and skills they need to become successful, motivated, and happier students.
Traditional methods such as tutoring may not be the definitive answer. Nothing is more important to us than giving your child the best future and the happiest life possible. With our specialized programs, talented and dedicated staff, and thorough process, the Centre addresses the root causes of a student’s learning difficulties, providing them with the skills they will need in the future.
Our History
In 1989, Karen Foley co-founded Strategic Learning Centre as a response to parents’ need for an alternative to standard tutoring methods.
According to Mrs. Foley, how and not what a child learns should be the basis for remediation. Thanks to her vision, Strategic Learning Centre has provided several new and cutting-edge learning programs to Montreal families for decades. Her unique one-on-one teaching approach was developed to address how each student perceives, processes, and retains information.
We have developed a keen sense of how to identify and solve even the most challenging learning problems, while taking into account the child’s emotional needs. Our centre has helped thousands of students become confident, successful learners – and we’ve been doing it for nearly 30 years!
Mrs. Foley has conducted many workshops for parents and teachers on reading, writing, study skills, and learning disabilities, taught Effective Written Communication at McGill University, and developed and wrote a successful study skills program that is currently offered at the Centre. Karen has been quoted in the Montreal Gazette, Montreal Families, and Homemakers Magazine.
The right assessment is key. In our 4-step process, we:
1. Consult
Conduct an initial, face-to-face consultation where we review your child’s personal and academic strengths and weaknesses, developmental milestones, and past and current academic performance and behavior.
2. Recommend
Recommend testing (when necessary) to help us develop
the right solutions for your child.
3. Develop
Develop and implement a customized education plan.
4. Monitor
Monitor and re-evaluate progress to ensure that your child is moving ahead according to plan.
Our Team
David Schipper has been the director of Strategic Learning Centre since October 2013. David obtained a B.A. in English Literature from Concordia University in 1998 as well as a B.Ed. in Secondary Education (English and History) from McGill University in 2002…
Dara Goldsmith has been a program director of Strategic Learning Centre since August 2013. Dara obtained a B.A. in Psychology in 2009 and an M.Ed. with a specialization in Educational Psychology in 2012…
Kathy began her teaching career in 1976 with the Protestant School Board of Greater Montreal, before relocating to Toronto in 1981. The birth of her son opened the door to her…
Claire joined our team in November 2014 as our office manager and bookkeeper. Her background in office and hotel management helps keep the Centre running smoothly and our team in top shape. Claire’s pleasant and friendly nature helps clients …
Karolyn has over 20 years of experience as a Montessori primary and elementary teacher. She has a Master’s Degree in Education and a Graduate Certificate in Learning Therapy and advocates that all learning material should fit the unique strengths…
Robin has a Bachelor’s degree in Education and a diploma in Special Education. Prior to her 17 years as a staff member of Strategic Learning Centre, she worked as an elementary and high school teacher in Montreal and the United States…
Nancy has been a part of the SLC team since 2012. With over 25 years of teaching experience, she is devoted to creating a positive learning environment for her students. Nancy has a B.Ed. from McGill University, as well as a graduate diploma in gifted education…
Michelle’s enthusiastic, positive, and energetic personality helps motivate her students and encourages them to try their best. She is passionate about helping children learn and overcome their challenges, and her goal is to get students…
Dominique has a B.Ed. in Elementary Education and a diploma in Special Education. She has 10 years of teaching experience, working as both a resource and classroom teacher. Dominique joined our team in 2015 and teaches several…
Jessica has both a B.A. and B.Ed., the latter specializing in secondary English and Social Studies. She is the newest member of our staff, but has already demonstrated her commitment in helping students develop, set, and meet their…
Jenn has a B.A. in Leisure Studies and has overseen the Fast ForWord and Cellfield programs at Strategic Learning Centre for the past eight years. Coupled with her experience of working with children in many leisure settings, she has a myriad…