Brown University PAL Program offers Tutoring to Individuals with Developmental Disabilities

For over three decades, Valeria Quagliata has been receiving tutoring from the Partnership for Adult Learning.   The program, run through Brown University’s Swearer Center for Public Service, pairs student tutors with adults with developmental disabilities in the pursuit of mutual growth through personal relationships formed around the shared pursuit of continuing education.  The program has been popular with both students and mentors since its founding in the late 1970’s.

At the beginning of academic semesters participating individuals are sent a survey form, asking them what they would like to learn.  Topics of study range from learning a language to graphic design skills.  Individuals are paired with Brown University undergraduate students who act as their tutors once a week for a semester.  Often pairings are maintained for two consecutive semesters or more.  This makes the relationship different from the typical student-teacher dynamic according to Swearer Center Supervisor, Janet Isserlis. “The program is based upon the building of relationships where the mentors are invested and focused on the individual’s achievement.  These on-going supports create a two-way learning experience.  Mentors report experiencing personal growth as a result of the relationship they’ve formed with their learners.”

This sentiment was shared by student leaders of the program who were asked about their experience.  Community Fellow Sujaya Desai emphasized how “wonderfully fulfilling” her three years working with PAL has been.  She stressed how the program “helped [her] to be a better teacher by focusing her on the strengths and needs of her student.”  Co-Fellow Sandra Yan agreed saying that “ she has been privileged to work with PAL.  The whole experience has been truly enriching.”  The participating organizations, which provide supports to people with developmental disabilities full time, agree that the program has had an immense positive impact on participants.  West Bay Case Manager Betty Ricci, said “PAL is an absolutely wonderful program for the individuals, they love it!”

When asked ‘what’s the best part of PAL,’ mentors and learners agreed it was the celebration at the end of each semester.  At the event, participants exhibit what they learned over the semester, Desai captured the magic of that event.  “All of our learners achieved something amazing by then end of each semester, it’s truly incredible to see firsthand.”

West Bay Residential Services, Inc. provides residential, employment and day support services to more than 130 individuals with developmental disabilities.  West Bay supports individuals in making life choices, maintaining friend and family relationships and having fun while establishing their role within their community.