Carol Parker-Elbert, Vice Chair, Larc School Board of Directors
By Carol Parker-Elbert
As Larc School approaches its 50th Anniversary, I am very pleased to have the opportunity to reflect on my long-standing relationship with the school. Starting as a Special Education teacher in 1977, in rented classroom space in a Haddon Heights synagogue, I was privileged to be a part of a dynamic and warm learning environment for students facing disabilities.
Our exceptionally small teaching staff of five each had three to five students. Forty years later, I can still recall each student and where some of them are today. Our close group of teachers from those early days have remained connected to Larc and to each other, one of whom continues on the Larc staff today as a Speech Pathologist. A group we started back then—the Ladies of Larc—is happily extant, as well.
When I last wrote a Board message, I said that I believe the sincere commitment and personal connection to the students, families, and staff was one of the qualities that makes Larc unique. I’d like to cite a few other distinctions that make Larc an exceptional stand-out in Special Education—the high standards of professionalism among a constant and dedicated staff; the commitment to, and caring for each and every student, day in and day out; and the ability to do the right thing for each individual student every single day. These core values and virtues remain a constant at Larc.
But one of Larc’s most desirable qualities is the ability to change with the times and the need, and I’ve seen much change over the years as Larc has become a state-of-the-art school. Larc has grown in size, both inside and outside, and in population; crayons, pencils, and scissors have given way to computers, smart boards, and talkers (computerized speech generating devices) as technological advances have been incorporated into teaching plans; a secondary teaching program for students aged 14 to 21 has been established; and a successful adult program is sustained. And, this year, enhancements to the secondary program are underway.
At the center of Larc, and one of Larc’s most important constants, is Executive Director Susan Weiner. Susan is pivotal to what makes Larc so successful, so accommodating. She makes staff want to stay and do their very best every day. Staff stay dedicated, not only because they can see the difference they make in the faces and accomplishments of their students, but also because they feel respected and appreciated.
Susan is the face of Larc. Everyone knows her, not just at Larc, but everywhere in the world of Special Education. And she knows everyone at Larc—every student and every student’s family. She encourages and nurtures the very special “family” feel found everywhere at Larc School that is a hallmark of this amazing place.
Yes, things have changed at Larc and in my life — I now live and work in the Cape May area — but I cannot imagine not having the joy and honor of being on the Larc Board of Directors and doing whatever I can to help keep Larc the wonderful school it is, even as it changes year by year into something always better.
