Specialties
At Key School, students are valued individuals with unique social, emotional, and intellectual needs. Here, our students' journeys begin with a detailed assessment to determine their specific needs as well as their current academic standing. Their results are then thoroughly examined and explained so parents and faculty clearly understand the goals and expectations for their students.
Key School's integrated curricula, which fulfill the requirements for academic credit, are modified, augmented, and enriched to accommodate each student's unique learning styles. This approach is paired with individualized schedules meticulously designed to build upon the specific strengths, weaknesses, and academic goals of each student.
We have created a school culture that surrounds students in a positive environment and is grounded in support. We believe children deserve encouragement from trusted mentors to guide them in making good decisions. Our dedicated staff directs all efforts toward the continuous improvement of all our students.
Key School is devoted to helping children find their key to success.
History
Established in 1966.
In 1964, the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital's Pediatric Neurology Division initiated a cutting edge language therapy program designed to teach dyslexic students how to read. The program, utilizing the Orton-Gillingham approach to reading and spelling, focused on one-to-one student/teacher interaction. Among the program's first graduates was Mary Ann Key, who was encouraged to attend by pediatrician John Richardson, M.D. In 1966, Mrs. Key and fellow teacher, Mildred Gardner opened Key School's doors for the first time.
Key School started as a six week summer program utilizing the Scottish Rite curriculum. The school thrived under the guidance of Mrs. Key, Mrs. Gardner, and Dr. Richardson and hundreds of children with dyslexia and other learning differences succeeded at Key School each summer. As word spread of this new, specialized way of teaching, demand grew, and services eventually expanded to a full academic school serving grades K-12.
Meet the Manager: Leslie V.
Leslie Vasquez, Director of Education and Head of School, has shared her passion for education with both faculty and students for over fifteen years. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Columbia College and her Master of Education Administration from Lamar University. With experience across multiple age levels, in both the public and private arenas, she believes that all children are capable of success when properly educated.
At Key School, Mrs. Vasquez's previous experience as Assistant Director gave her the critical insight needed to effectively lead as the Head of School, a role she has thrived in for four years. As she supports students, families, and teachers, she has honed a vision for Key School that includes equipping students with the skills and strategies necessary to address their learning differences and achieve their own level of academic confidence and future success.
Leslie resides in Saginaw with her husband of 21 years and two children Tyler and Ryan.
