Transforming Lives Through the Arrowsmith Program: A Journey of Empowerment

The Arrowsmith Program is revolutionizing education for students with learning challenges by addressing the root causes of cognitive difficulties. At Brehm Preparatory School, this program has transformed the lives of students for over 11 years, helping them achieve newfound confidence and academic success. This blog highlights the program’s origins, success stories, and data-driven approach, showcasing how students overcome challenges in working memory, processing speed, comprehension, and more. Learn how the Arrowsmith Program fosters empowerment and opens doors to lifelong learning.

Jocelyn Keehn
Arrowsmith Instructor

Introduction:

Imagine the impact on a family when a child who has struggled with reading their entire life picks up a book and reads it aloud with newfound confidence. Or a teenager who once felt overwhelmed by math now solving problems with ease—problems they wouldn’t have even attempted just months ago. These transformative moments are at the heart of the Arrowsmith Program, an innovative approach designed to change not only academic outcomes but also the lives of students who have felt paralyzed by learning challenges. For many families, the Arrowsmith Program becomes a lifeline, offering hope, empowerment, and a future filled with greater possibilities.

The Origins of the Arrowsmith Program:

The Arrowsmith Program's journey began with its visionary creator, Barbara Arrowsmith-Young. Barbara faced severe learning disabilities throughout her life. Refusing to accept the limitations placed on her, and driven by research and the belief that the brain could be transformed, she developed the first cognitive exercise to address her own deficits.This pioneering effort laid the foundation for the Arrowsmith Program—using an approach that doesn’t merely accommodate learning difficulties but actively works to transform the brain itself. Today, more than 30 years later, students around the world are experiencing significant breakthroughs and overcoming challenges that once seemed insurmountable.

Success Stories at Brehm:

At Brehm, we have proudly witnessed the bravery of students and the impact of the Arrowsmith Program for over 11 years. While changes are often incremental, they are undeniably significant. Teachers, parents, and speech pathologists frequently notice early signs of cognitive growth even before the students themselves do. One of the most exciting moments is when students begin to recognize these changes for themselves. A common transformation we observe is a shift in confidence and vulnerability. As students achieve key milestones, known as Masteries, they start to see themselves as capable learners—sometimes for the very first time. This newfound confidence often leads to a greater enthusiasm for learning and a willingness to embrace challenges previously avoided. Here are a few:

The Power of Perseverance - A Journey from Struggle to Success

A Parent’s Perspective - Watching My Son Transform

Celebrating Hard Work and Progress - Jacob’s Success Story

Finding Her Voice - Lydia’s Inspiring Contribution

The Data-Driven Approach of the Arrowsmith Program:

The Arrowsmith Program is grounded in a data-driven approach. We meticulously collect statistical information on student engagement and progress toward benchmark goals daily. As students “master” their goals, they are encouraged to strive for the next level. Our team evaluates progress using Arrowsmith cognitive pre- and post-assessments, Woodcock-Johnson academic test scores, speech and language assessments, and anecdotal reports from parents, clinicians, student life staff, and the students themselves. This comprehensive evaluation helps us track improvements in various areas, including:

  • Working memory
  • Processing speed
  • Comprehension
  • Understanding of cause and effect
  • Nonverbal information processing
  • Verbal expression
  • Handwriting and typing skills
  • Number sense

A Journey of Empowerment at Brehm:

The privilege of working with Brehm families for over 11 years has reinforced my belief that the Arrowsmith Program is more than just a cognitive intervention—it is a journey of empowerment. Witnessing the transformation of a student who once felt stuck with a learning challenge into a confident, capable learner is truly remarkable. At Brehm, we celebrate these milestones with renewed hope. The data-driven, individualized approach of the Arrowsmith Program ensures that each student’s unique needs are addressed, leading to not only academic success but also personal growth and lifelong skills.

Learn More About the Arrowsmith Program’s Cognitive Impact

For a detailed look into how the Arrowsmith Program enhances cognitive functions and the data-driven methods used to track progress, visit Meghan Collins Morse's blog, "The Arrowsmith Program: Enhancing Cognitive Functioning in Students." Meghan provides an in-depth analysis of the cognitive areas targeted by the program and how they contribute to students’ success.

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