Personalized learning that builds confidence
Building strong foundations and empowering growth
Strengthen literacy and learning among children and families through evidence-based tutoring, homeschool support, and enrichment activities.
Every child learns to read and reason in the most effective, efficient, and joyful way possible. Developing the roots to stand tall and the wings to fly far.
Stability, compassion, and community â building a firm foundation for every child.
Growth, empowerment, and confidence â helping students soar toward success.
Roots and Wings Learning Center Inc is a Pennsylvania 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation. We are governed by a volunteer Board of Directors who give freely of their time and talent to provide guidance and oversight in support of the vision of Roots & Wings.
Each board member is chosen for their unique background and experience that contributes to overall achievement of our mission.
The need for intensive reading intervention has never been greater
Multiple factors have created a perfect storm for literacy struggles
Remote instruction delayed foundational reading for K-3 students
Rural districts face shortages of reading specialists and intervention teachers
Reduced access to books, early literacy activities, and private tutoring
Compounds reading delays for already struggling students
Structured reading interventions can close achievement gaps by up to 2 grade levels in just 12-20 weeks of consistent instruction
Yet access to such interventions is limited, and many families cannot afford private tutoring
Roots & Wings Learning Center was founded to address this critical need â empowering children, families, and educators to create a stronger, more literate community for the future of Indiana County.
Small groups, big impact
A safe, supportive alternative that combines academics, confidence-building, and connection in a small-group environment.
Monday - Friday
8 AM - 3 PM
November 12, 2025 â June 15, 2026
Maximum 5 students to ensure personalized attention for every child
Zion Lutheran Church
Indiana, PA
(faith-friendly, non-denominational instruction)
Licensed special-education teacher with expertise in personalized learning
Evidence-based instruction that works
Direct, phonics-based lessons aligned with research on how children learn to read. We build fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension through structured, evidence-based methods.
Clear, structured, rule-based instruction in writing and grammar that helps students communicate effectively and confidently.
Hands-on practice using the Concrete-Representational-Abstract progression, ensuring deep conceptual understanding of mathematics.
Students learn to plan, self-monitor, and communicate their needs confidently â building skills for lifelong success.
We work closely with families under PA Act 169, strengthening literacy support at home and creating a cohesive learning environment.
With only 5 students, we provide individualized attention, differentiated instruction, and emotional support tailored to each child.
Research and insights on early literacy
A compelling look at why parents should take immediate action if their child is behind in reading. Data shows that children who fall behind rarely catch up on their own â only 5-49% of struggling readers reach grade level by third grade depending on when they fell behind.
Read ArticleChad Aldeman
This article challenges the common educational myth that students transition from "learning to read" to "reading to learn" after third grade. Research shows literacy instruction must continue through at least K-8 with explicit teaching of advanced skills.
Read ArticleRebecca Kockler and Kunjan Narechania
Only 5 spaces available for 2025-2026
With only 5 spots available, we can provide truly personalized attention to every child. Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Grades 3-4 (other grades considered on a case-by-case basis)
November 12, 2025 â June 15, 2026
Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Zion Lutheran Church, Indiana PA
Maximum 5 students for personalized learning
Includes all curriculum, materials, and personalized instruction
ð Financial assistance may be available as our nonprofit grows
Give your child the gift of personalized education in a nurturing, small-group environment where they can truly thrive.
We'd love to hear from you
Rebecca Chadwick M.Ed.
Licensed Special Education Teacher
Zion Lutheran Church
Indiana, PA