| About Us |
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Mission At Chase’s Place, we believe that every person possesses unique talents and qualities that enrich their lives and the lives of others. Our mission is to support students in discovering independence to their maximum potential, allowing them to live life to the fullest. History Ten years ago, my wife Sharon and I woke up to the realization that Chase, our son, was going to have special needs. Since then, our hearts have been devoted to helping him develop both socially and cognitively to his fullest potential. When it came time to think about schooling for Chase, we visited every private school in the Dallas area that was a possible educational choice. Our options were extremely limited and Chase didn’t seem to fit in anywhere. We also pursued public education and were gravely disappointed in what was available to our son. While visiting the Notre Dame School in Dallas, we were both impressed with the classroom teacher we had observed. We were so hopeful that Chase could attend the program with Laura Holmes as his teacher, but once again we were told that Chase did not fit the “criteria” for the type of student they wanted. We were so frustrated with the lack of resources available for children with moderate to severe delays that we began to consider the possibility of starting our own school. We contacted the teacher from Notre Dame and were surprised when she informed us of her own desire to start a school to fit the needs of these children who were being turned away from private special education schools. In August, 2003 we opened “Chase’s Place” to two students and ended the school year with four students. Our current school year boasts 8 students. Besides Laura Holmes, we have another fulltime teacher, an administrative director, three fulltime aides, and several contract therapists who provide speech, music, occupational and physical therapies. We also offer 2 three week sessions of summer camp that are very successful and well attended. Sharon and I have been very pleased with Chase’s progress as have the other parents. We are all grateful that our school fills a void in the educational system by providing a place for our kids to flourish as never before. Our dream is that we can expand the program and offer this opportunity to all deserving children. We invite you to visit our special school and learn more about our programs. Please feel free to call (972) 243-2676 for additional information. Thank you for taking an interest in our school. Sincerely,
Steve Folsom Chase’s Place Board President |