About Us
News & Annual Reports
Eric Ford Joins Stern Center as Director of Strategic Communications
[Williston, Vermont, February 10, 2026] This is a new role on the leadership team of the Vermont-based nonprofit Stern Center. As Director, Eric will focus on fostering awareness of the organization’s mission to help learners and empower teachers; inspiring donor support to ensure access to life-changing learning; and building connections that strengthen communities.
Stern Center Awarded Literacy Improvement Contract by Vermont Agency of Education
Williston, VT – The Stern Center for Language and Learning is pleased to announce that following a national RFP process, the Vermont Agency of Education has selected the Stern Center as a contractor for literacy improvement efforts, working with schools and communities through the Read Vermont initiative.
The Science Behind Dyslexia: NPR Highlights Breakthroughs in Understanding and Treatment
National Public Radio delves into the most common learning disability, dyslexia, with insights from Gabrielle Emanuel of the NPR Ed team. While recorded in 2016, the information is still relevant today.
M&T Bank and Stern Center Launch Equity and Access Initiative
A generous grant from M&T Bank ensures more students will receive vital education services and support.
Reaching More Learners, Teachers, and School Leaders
Thanks to the generous support of visionary donors, we’re welcoming learners and their families, teachers and school leaders to a new Stern Center website.
The Reading Crisis and What We Can Do to Fix It
Effective literacy instruction in schools is our most powerful tool to advance equity of educational outcomes. Together, we can ensure that every child can read, write, learn, and thrive.
Learning Disabilities Awareness Month & Dyslexia Awareness Month
As some of you may know, every October people around the world celebrate two very important causes: Learning Disabilities Awareness Month and Dyslexia Awareness Month.
Activities, Games, and Lessons for Social Learning: A Practical Guide
A terrific resource guide full of games and activities that will help kids learn important social-emotional skills, written by the Stern Center’s Director of Social Learning and Communication, Julie Erdelyi, M.A.
Dr. Laurie Quinn, President of the Stern Center, Speaks with Ric Cengeri, Host of Vermont Viewpoint, on WDEV Radio
On May 11, Ric Cengeri, host of WDEV’s Vermont Viewpoint, interviewed Dr. Laurie Quinn, President of the Stern Center for Language and Learning. In this conversation, Laurie and Ric discuss the variety of services the Stern Center offers that positively impact students and educators.
Parent’s Guide to Tests and Assessments for Children Who Might Have a Learning Disability
When you have questions about assessment, finding the answers should be easy. “All About Tests & Assessments,” co-authored by the Stern Center’s Director of Evaluations, Melissa Farrall, is a comprehensive guide for parents, teachers, and therapists looking to understand how to use tests and assessments to identify students’ challenges and to guide them developing a customized learning plan.
Etymology and Why We Should Care
“Autism” has its root in the Greek word “autos,” which means “self.” It describes conditions in which a person is removed from social interaction. “De minimis” is a Latin expression meaning “about minimal things.” It describes the lowest applicable standards applied in legal distinctions. Put those together and you have the foundation for a unanimous recent Supreme Court ruling regarding a student with autism.
