Buena Park, CA – November 30, 2023 – This month Speech & Language Development Center (SLDC) welcomed onto campus journalist, Carmen Valencia, from Spectrum News 1 SoCal to visit the school’s arts and crafts room. Valencia met with one of SLDC’s teachers, Marita Ortiz, as she worked with a 15-year-old student with Down Syndrome, Gigi Arico.
Valencia observed the inspiring relationship between the two as Ortiz instructed Arico on a pumpkin painting project. Over the past three years, Ortiz has created a special bond with Arico that goes beyond being her teacher. As her mentor and friend, Ortiz has worked with Arico to develop her natural leadership skills, ensure her success in learning, and create more opportunities for her to pursue her dreams. Arico spoke about how she wants to give back to her community the same way SLDC staff like her teachers and school nurse do.
SLDC’s top education programs, specialty activities, and dedicated staff all foster a nurturing environment for their students to grow and lead more independent lives. CEO, Dr. Adrienne Kessler, emphasized to Valencia the growing need for more affordable and accessible special education. She told Valencia that SLDC is committed in meeting this challenge and being a part of the ongoing efforts to providing support, resources, and equal opportunities for students of all abilities.
