The Learning Center for the Deaf has named Maria Mair-Stanley as the new Walden School Principal.
Maria earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology and her Master's degree in Special Education from Pennsylvania State University. She is also currently studying for her Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master's program at William James College.
She has held various positions at The Learning Center for the Deaf, including Child Care Worker, Family Partner, and, most recently, 5th Grade Classroom Teacher. She has over 10 years of experience in working with deaf children and adults and 5 years teaching. Maria remains a strong advocate for mental health, diversity, and inclusion.
Maria's vision for Walden School is to provide a secure and positive environment that will allow time and space for healing and learning. She passionately believes in giving every child a solid foundation to build on and achieve their full potential. She pledges a welcoming, safe, and supportive learning environment in which everyone is equal and all achievements are celebrated.
“We are grateful for Maria’s compassion and dedication to TLC,” said Chief People Officer Isidore Niyongabo. “Her energy and enthusiasm creates a wonderful opportunity for Walden School to continue its growth as a program and further build a strong support system for our Walden students and staff.”
Maria will begin her new role on August 1.
Walden School is a nationally-recognized residential therapeutic and education program for deaf children and youth ages 8 to 22. Walden School students have often experienced significant adverse childhood events, as well as language deprivation, resulting in mental health challenges, and have treatment needs that have not been successfully addressed in other academic and residential settings.
