Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Unique Learning Pathways Education Center?

A: Unique Learning Pathways Education Center offers expert literacy intervention for middle schoolers (grades 6-8). We aren’t a tutoring service—we use proven, research-based reading methods to help struggling readers succeed.

Q: What makes your approach different from tutoring?

A: Unlike tutoring, which focuses on homework and test prep, our intervention targets the root causes of reading struggles with individualized, science-backed instruction. We do not offer homework help.

Q: Why do you only serve middle school students?

A: Most reading programs focus on younger kids, but middle schoolers have unique needs. We specialize in this age group, using materials and methods designed just for them.

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Q: Who provides the instruction?

A: Mrs. Lekeshia Purdy, M.Ed., a certified special education teacher with 10+ years’ experience, provides all instruction. Any future instructors will be specially trained in our methods.

Q: Are sessions in-person or virtual?

A: All sessions are conducted virtually. This allows for flexible scheduling and eliminates travel time for busy families. Your child will need a reliable internet connection and a device with a camera and microphone.

Q: How often are sessions?

A: Intervention sessions are held once per week for 12 weeks. Each session provides focused, individualized instruction designed to build skills systematically over time.

Q: How do I schedule my child's session time?

A: Once you are fully enrolled, you will have the opportunity to select your preferred weekly session time using Mrs. Purdy's online scheduler. This allows you to choose a time that works best for your family's schedule.

Q: When do assessments and intervention sessions begin?

A: Diagnostic assessments are available on Saturdays beginning in December. Intervention sessions begin in January. This schedule allows us to complete assessments and develop individualized intervention plans before the new year, so your child is ready to start strong in January.

Q: How will I know if my child is making progress?

A: We use ongoing progress monitoring throughout the program to track your child's growth. You'll receive regular updates, and we adjust instruction as needed based on data. Our goal is measurable improvement in reading skills, not just time spent in sessions.

IS THIS RIGHT FOR MY CHILD?

Q: How do I know if my child needs literacy intervention?

A: Your child may benefit from our program if they:

• Struggle to read grade-level texts

• Avoid reading or say they hate reading

• Have difficulty sounding out unfamiliar words

• Read slowly or with poor fluency

• Struggle with spelling

• Have trouble understanding what they read

• Have been identified with dyslexia or a learning difference

• Are performing below grade level on reading assessments

Q: Do you work with students who have dyslexia?

A: Yes. Our structured literacy approach is specifically designed to support students with dyslexia and other learning differences. The systematic, explicit instruction we provide is the type of intervention research shows is most effective for these students. Mrs. Purdy's background in special education means she understands how to adapt instruction to meet each student's unique needs.

Q: My child is embarrassed about their reading struggles. How do you handle that?

A: We understand that middle schoolers are acutely aware of how they compare to their peers. Our program is designed with dignity and respect at the forefront. We use age-appropriate materials (not "baby books"), celebrate progress, and create a supportive environment where your child can build skills and confidence without judgment.

Q: What if tutoring hasn't worked for my child?

A: Many families come to us after traditional tutoring hasn't produced results. That's because tutoring typically doesn't address the underlying skill gaps that cause reading difficulties. Our diagnostic assessment identifies exactly where the breakdown is occurring—whether in decoding, comprehension, or both—and our systematic instruction targets those specific areas. We don't help with homework—we teach your child how to read.

Q: Do you offer homework help?

A: No, we do not offer homework help at this time. Our focus is on targeted literacy intervention that addresses the root causes of reading difficulties. This is a fundamentally different service than tutoring—we're teaching your child the skills they need to become a confident, independent reader.

   GETTING STARTED

Q: How do I enroll my child?

A: Getting started is simple:

• Step 1: Schedule a free Discovery Call

• Step 2: Meet with Mrs. Purdy to discuss your child's needs

• Step 3: Complete enrollment and submit payment

• Step 4: Select your preferred session time using Mrs. Purdy's online scheduler

• Step 5: Complete your diagnostic assessment (Saturdays in December)

• Step 6: Begin your 12 weekly intervention sessions (starting January)

Q: What is a Discovery Call?

A: A Discovery Call is a free, no-obligation conversation where we get to know your family and your child's reading challenges. This is your opportunity to ask questions, share your concerns, and learn more about our approach. We believe in building relationships with families before any financial commitment—we want to make sure we're the right fit for your child's needs.

Q: When can my child start?

A: Diagnostic assessments begin on Saturdays in December, and intervention sessions start in January. Contact us now to schedule your Discovery Call and secure your spot. Because we provide individualized, one-on-one instruction, enrollment is limited.