Indispensable partners in learning, rooted in Vermont
Stern Center for Language and Learning
Welcome! As the Stern Center’s President,
I’m proud to tell you more about us.
The Stern Center for Language and Learning is an education-focused nonprofit that expands the power of learning for all. We’re a team of about 80 full-time and part-time professionals, based in Vermont and around the U.S., who support and serve students, families, teachers, education leaders, schools and communities. Founded in 1983, we have a proud history of aligning our practices in evaluation, teaching, and curriculum to neuroscience research on effective learning. Learners, families, and teachers trust our team to provide the services and insight they need to thrive, and individuals and foundations who share our passion for learning make financial gifts that ensure we can provide income-based assistance and continue to innovate. Access to Stern Center learning nurtures diverse minds, changes what’s possible in our lives, turns potential into reality, and makes communities stronger.
What We Do
An evaluation from the Stern Center is created by our first-rate team of experts in a high-quality, thorough, and supportive process of testing and consulting to guide current and future plans for learning—and to foster insight for success.
Our experienced instruction team engages students in one-on-one learning to support success in reading, writing, math, organization, time management, and more. Our team of autism experts and speech-language pathologists supports social communication and understanding, providing opportunities to practice individually or in social learning groups.
Here for Learners and Their Teachers
Our educators are caring, creative, and experienced, making a difference on site and online each day. Stern Center families and teachers everywhere see results that change lives and open up the future.
Our Current Strategic Priorities:
Change More Lives
with Learning
Now and Tomorrow
Help More Teachers
as Practical Allies,
Trusted Leaders
Support
Difference-Makers
to Sustain Impact
Our Values
The Stern Center for Language and Learning Stands for:
Learning
We cultivate and
expand our knowledge and skills.
Integrity
We are honest,
and we do
what is right.
Compassion
We care,
we listen,
we help.
Expertise
We understand learners deeply and make a difference
for them.
Innovation
We foster new approaches and continously adapt.
Meet Our Team
Our Board of Directors
As a 501c3 nonprofit organization, the Stern Center for Language and Learning is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors. Board members, together with the Stern Center’s executive leaders, chart a course for continued organizational growth and sustainability. With their skills, knowledge, commitment, community ties, and long-term vision, the Stern Center’s Board stewards our mission and champions our success. We are proud to consistently achieve 100% philanthropic participation by our Board of Directors, who meet quarterly and serve on Board Committees focused on key areas of organizational stewardship. Directors are elected to the Board in recognition of their integrity, diligence, and dedication of time and talent. An Honorary Board of Directors expands the Stern Center’s reach and includes distinguished members whose legacy of service and connection to the organization merits special recognition.
Work at the Stern Center
Do you love to learn continuously? Are you interested in being part of an organization that is dedicated to life-changing learning for all? If so, you could find your professional home on our team at the Stern Center. Please contact our Human Resources Director (hcastillo@sterncenter.org) if you’re interested in an open role or seeking to explore career opportunities.
Reach Out to the Stern Center
Ready to talk with us about your specific questions, or want to learn more details? Get in touch with our team here.
A Brief History
In 1983, researcher and Stern Center President Emerita Dr. Blanche Podhajski (pictured above) formed a nonprofit organization to provide evaluations and direct instruction for individuals, deliver professional learning for educators and physicians, and conduct research on effective educational practices. Funded by an initial grant from the Bernice and Milton Stern Foundation, The Center for Language and Cerebral Function, known since 1988 as the Stern Center for Language and Learning, opened in Vermont. In 2008, visionary philanthropist Cynthia K. Hoehl established the Stern Center’s Hoehl Institute, endowing a fund to support access to high-quality professional learning for teachers. In 2021, Dr. Laurie Quinn was appointed the Stern Center’s second President. For the latest in the Stern Center’s story, please see our Annual Reports.
