The Learning Edge helps children succeed in school

The Learning Edge, 3 Main St., in Lockport offers a variety of tutoring options for children in pre-kindergarten though 12th-grade.

Owner Lisa Belling grew up in the Lockport area and attended Starpoint. Her husband and her moved to Virginia where she taught elementary school. When they returned to the area, she began substituting.

But after she had her son, she decided she wanted to find a new way to use her teaching skills. So in 2008 the Learning Edge Tutoring Center began.

“I just thought this was a really good area to have one on one tutoring,” said Belling. “It just started growing.

When she got pregnant with her daughter, she decided to expand, hiring Katrina Krull. When Krull’s tutoring schedule began to fill up, Christina Knapp was hired.

Belling and Krull focus on elementary education, where Knapp focuses on SAT prep, GED prep and secondary courses, specializing in math.

Krull is also planning on holding group workshops in writing and kindergarten readiness. She said the pre-kindergarten workshop is designed to get children ready for school, to focus on basic skills they will need and socializing.

“The kids really feel comfortable when they come here,” said Belling. “We strive to build confidence so when they go to school they feel like they can do it.”

Currently the Learning Edge is working with 30 children.

“They love it,” said Belling. “I have parents who bring kids even though they don’t really need the help anymore. It builds their confidence. There is a real personal feel with families.”

Those interested in attending the Learning Edge can receive a free evaluation.

Sessions are one hour, at $35 an hour when school begins.

Times are very flexible, said Belling. She said it is based on the parent and student’s schedule.

They will work with the child during evening hours and on Saturdays. Parents can even bring two children at once or come for two hours at a time.

Students from any district are welcome, along with children who are home schooled.

“It’s always the same teacher,” said Belling. “They get use to them. They are comfortable with them. The parents like knowing there is always the same teacher with them.”

Belling remembers when she was younger, going to tutoring felt like a punishment.

“This is not a punishment to come here,” she said. “Kids like coming here. It’s a clean, comfortable place. They have a good time and learn.”

She said they play games and do activities that are fun, but also educational, causing them to learn “and they don’t even know it.”

“It’s the best part of teaching,” said Krull. “You get to see them grow.”

For more information about the Learning Edge Tutoring Center call 807-5878 or visit www.learningedge123.com.

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E-mail: rcason@metrowny.com.