Throughout 2008-09, the association has thrived in many essential ways. An outstanding Board of Directors has worked together to keep things running smoothly. We were privileged to retain the services of a dedicated coordinator for our LINKS pilot, Andrea Schneider. Andrea worked diligently to ensure that this first-time effort was successful, both for our organization and for the children who benefited from this service. A special thanks goes out to Dawn Gallow for her part in finding LINKS a home this year. We had a very successful year in terms of the marketing of the Screening for Success program, which kept us “in the black” this year financially, and provided essential training to individuals who provide support to people with learning disabilities. The Ministerial Steering Committee on Inclusion has nearly completed the consultations necessary to move forward with a provincial policy statement on inclusion in schools. I have also enjoyed the opportunity to represent our Association as a member of the Premiers Council on the Status of Disabled Persons. I have considered it a privilege to be able to advocate and to have the opportunity to present the unique needs of children with LDs to provincial policymakers.

However, it has also been occasionally discouraging to note the challenges posed by provincial budget cuts, and the focus of these cuts within the Department of Education. We are only beginning to sense the impact of the loss of several methods and resource teachers, learning specialists, and library personnel around the province. Our resolve is strengthened as we realize the importance of encouraging policymakers to acknowledge the value of these essential services for children with LD, and for all NB students.

In April of this year, Dr. Bill Morrison and I were privileged to serve as keynote speakers at the 5th Annual LDANB conference in Fredericton, presenting on the topic of Fostering Psychological Wellness for Individuals with Learning Disabilities. In June, the Board of Directors met at the beautiful Kingsbrae Garden in St. Andrews to celebrate our Annual General Meeting. We were honoured by the presence of our Patron, Dr. Marilyn Trenholme-Counsell, and pleased that she will continue to be involved with our organization in the year to come. We are also grateful for the efforts, generosity and expertise of our Honourary Solictor, Mr. Kelly VanBuskirk. Special thanks are also in order for our departing Board members: David Wagner, whose long time support and guidance has been invaluable; Susan Marshall, whose dedication as Board Secretary will be sorely missed; and Dr. Anne Israeli, who has been a source of invaluable knowledge and information, and a tremendous asset to our Board.

It has been a privilege to serve the Association as President over this past year. I look forward to working with both new Board members and existing volunteers and staff to make 2009-10 a year of productivity, sustainability and meaningful contributions on behalf of New Brunswickers with learning disabilities.

Patricia Kirby President

Today is life - the only life you are sure of. Make the most of today. Get interested in something. Shake yourself awake. Develop a hobby. Let the winds of enthusiasm sweep through you. Live today with gusto.
- Dale Carnegie