Today we’d like to introduce you to Samantha Ward.
Samantha, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I started a small childcare business twenty-one years ago which allowed me to care for my own children while serving the Garland community and surrounding areas. Once my youngest child graduated from high school, I decided to continue my education as an educator while running a small childcare business, I enrolled in online classes through the University of Phoenix. I pursued my Bachelors of Science in Psychology and I obtained my teacher’s certification in special education.
I am currently an Elementary teacher in an ALE setting. I served students with learning disabilities and developmental delays while working with the students, I discovered there was a need outside the academic setting doing summer breaks. I established SOAR Achievement Learning Center to offer these bright young minds with an opportunity to experience peer interaction, fine arts, along with social and life skills during their summer break.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road has not been a smooth one. I have faced many struggles and obstacles as a mother, businesswomen, and educator. During the development of the Soar Achievement Learning Center, I faced multiple personal challenges that lead me to depression and anxiety. Many times during the planning process, I questioned if I was making the right choice by creating SOAR. However, I have seen these challenges as motivators to help me soar above life’s challenges and detours.
Please tell us about the SOAR Achievement Learning Center.
SOAR Achievement Learning Center serves special needs students and their families during the summer by offering a two-week summer camp. Students have the opportunity to engage in fine arts activities, peer interaction, community volunteers interaction as well as life skills that are based on individuality.
I am proud that I was able to accomplish my goal in a short amount of time. My love, compassion, and ability to see beyond limitations in my students set me apart from others. My ability to have a servant’s heart is my greatest aspiration.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
My favorite childhood memory was being able to hang out at my Aunt Dorothy’s house with my siblings and cousins. We would play with her Barbie dolls, and paper dolls for hours while playing other games such as hide and seek and tag. She had this big swing in her front yard which everyone enjoyed.
Pricing:
- There’s a $25.00 nonrefundable fee to hold the camper’s spot.
- There’s a weekly fee of $125.00 as prices are subject to change.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 469-494-3414
- Email: Soar.alc1@gmail.com
- Instagram: http://www.facebook.com/SOAR Achievement Learning Center
- Facebook: SOAR Achievement Learning Center
Image Credit:
KS photography
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