The best things in life, like a child’s smile or the sun in the spring, may indeed be free. Just like the song says. However, in the current economy, it is difficult not to think about money. Those of us connected to Stevenson Learning Skills are doing our best to strike a balance between making a living and making important educational options accessible. Some things are indeed free. The new online activity is available to anyone with internet access. On our 800 number, consultation is available free to anyone with a phone. We are giving free introductory sessions in New Jersey, Houston and Charlotte to people who want to learn about the Stevenson Program, as well as a free support session in Houston for people already using it. Our senior trainer Nancy Ziehme has made some very useful videos of letter instruction available free on her web site, which also offers many other free teaching resources. (See QUESST, page 4.)

 Of course, it can’t all be free or we wouldn’t be able to do it at all. You will notice, however, that the Stevenson Language Skills Program is distinctly affordable. Compared to other methods that address the specific needs of dyslexic and learning disabled students, the Stevenson program can be implemented for a modest cost. Compared to most basal series, the materials are a bargain, even after the recent moderate increase in our book prices. We have tried to focus on the basics, on what works and what is fun for the students. While training is not a requirement for using Stevenson, schools systems that choose to engage our personnel feel like they get a great deal of expertise and support for the money. When we hold a public workshop, the cost is always well under $100 per participant. If you are looking to spend your Title 1 or Special Ed stimulus money wisely, our training exemplifies what that money was meant for. Effective instruction is more important than saving money, but you CAN do both. Free or not, few things in life are more important than education.