"Susan has opened up a world of possibilities for our son.  Her classroom is warm, her curriculum creative and engaging, and her methods effective.  In what was an ongoing struggle in and outside of the classroom has now become a joy as our son has gained newfound confidence and looks forward to reading as he continues to employ Susan's methods for success." 

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Kari Bienias

"Susan has an amazing ability to bring warmth, understanding, and fun into a learning environment,  There are giggles and structured, multi-sensory learning happening at the same time.  This type of learning works wonders for my daughter.   I am thankful every day that Kate and Susan's worlds collided!"

Jennifer Wood

There are not enough words to describe Susan McDonald's commitment to children with dyslexia.  Whether the child is her own or whether it is a child of the community in which she lives, Susan works as an advocate.  I have known Susan for more than 30 years.  As the parent of an adopted daughter that had learning challenges, she moved to Atlanta for 6 months with her daughter for intensive therapeutic language training.  As the wife of the mayor of Hickory she led the way for the creation of a non-profit devoted to the support of children with learning challenges such as "dyslexia", their families, and their teachers.  The Patrick Beaver Learning Resource Center celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2019.  Susan was also a vocal advocate of the state legislation that added the definition of dyslexia to the NC Policies Governing Services for Children with disabilities in August 2017. Few individuals respond with the passion and leadership that Susan has."

JoAnn Spees