Conceptual Evolution

Pattison's Academy  and Pattison's Day Camp were developed by four professional women who met as a result of a child named Pattison.  Pattison is a little girl who was born with significant brain damage as well as auditory and visual impairments.  This brain damage led to a diagnosis of spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy and multiple handicaps. 

Pattison has significant developmental and functional delays and constant management of her cerebral palsy and health are imperative.  However, with proper management, Pattison's life can be more independent, comfortable, functional, and happy.  Pattison's parents Pam and Mark Sloat are realistic concerning her future but want to maximize her strengths to enrich her life skills, cognition, and function.  They also hope to prevent secondary problems resulting from the cerebral palsy such as orthopedic deformities.

After attempting to examine the education options in the area and finding the public school system didn't even allow parents to observe a classroom prior to having an IEP in place, Pattison's parents were not satisfied with the educational philosophies and limited therapies offered once they were allowed access.  Pam's research showed most children with multiple disabilities spend only 25% of their time with typical classes and receive only 30 minutes per week of direct physical and occupational therapy.  Pam and Mark were seeking an environment that considered the needs of the whole child, not just her cognitive deficits.  There is currently not a facility in Charleston, Dorchester or Berkeley counties that combines comprehensive therapy with an appropriate educational program.

Cindy Dodds suggested to Pam that they start a school for children like Pattison.  Since Cindy has over 20 years of experience, she is very aware of the challenges Pattison will face.  Debbie Lamb, an occupational therapist with over 15 years of experience, had previously discussed with Cindy their vision of a pediatric rehabilitation facility integrated with a school that will promote continuous therapy support and treatment for special needs children throughout the day.

Cindy and Debbie have known each other for 14 years and have similar philosophies and recognized the need for an outstanding special education teacher to join our team.   Kimberly Wilson is a special education teacher who specialized in teaching those with mental retardation and profound mental disabilities.  She has almost 10 years of experience in the public school system. 

After observing Kimberly's high energy and teaching enthusiasm for special needs children, Cindy, Debbie and Pam approached her to see if she would be interested in joining our team. 

That is how our founding team was formed.