Innovative, Child-Centered Summer Learning Model Is Customized for Students with Special Needs

PAOLI, Pa., Jan. 26, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Valley Forge Educational Services (VFES) (www.vfes.net) today announced the launch of Summer Voyagers, a new summer learning program, part of VFES' Summer Matters™ program.

Unlike the many traditional summer remediation model programs in the region, Summer Matters offers a continuum of innovative programming for learners with special needs, ages 5 – 21. The new Summer Voyagers program, which is designed for children entering kindergarten through fifth grade in September 2012, uses an integrated approach of direct, small group academic instruction and executive function skill building with the support of experienced educators and on-site speech and occupational therapists. It combines multisensory, small-group academic instruction in reading and math with instruction in executive function skills – such as organization, planning, adaptability, impulse control, resilience and persistence – all key factors in school success.   

On Saturday, January 28th, VFES will recognize a $47,000 donation from SKF USA through the Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program at the "Special Kids" Camp Expo. The donation will benefit the Summer Voyagers program along with VFES' other summer programs, including Summer L.I.F.E.for students ages 8-21 with high functioning autism and Asperger's Syndrome and Extended School Year (ESY) programs.

"Summer Voyagers' strengths-based program helps struggling students realize their potential and develop tools for school success," said Jim Kirkpatrick, VFES Acting CEO.  "The financial support of SKF USA levels the playing field for many of our families – offering much-needed scholarships so that children can participate in supported academic and recreational opportunities each summer."

"Giving back to the community is very much a part of SKF's culture and the services that Valley Forge Educational Services provide exemplifies helping others less able," said Poul Jeppesen, President and CEO, SKF USA. "We're delighted that we could support the Summer Voyagers program."

To learn more about Summer Matters' offerings for Summer 2012, visit the website www.summermatters.org or read more about VFES' vision for summer learning.

About Valley Forge Educational Services
Valley Forge Educational Services (VFES) offers a wide variety of educational services focused on guiding young children, adolescents and post high school (18-21) learners to independence. For more information on Valley Forge Educational Services, please visit www.vfes.net.

About SKF USA Inc.
SKF USA Inc., headquartered in Lansdale, PA, is part of the SKF Group, a leading global supplier of bearings, seals, mechatronics, lubrication systems and services that include technical support, maintenance and reliability services, engineering consulting and training. SKF is represented in more than 130 countries and has 15,000 distributor locations worldwide. Annual sales in 2010 were $9.1 billion and the number of employees was 44,742. www.skfusa.com

CONTACT: Holly Henry, VFES Director of Communications, 610.296.6725 x342 or hhenry@vfes.net

SOURCE Valley Forge Educational Services

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