The Garside Institute for Teacher Training (GIFTT) at Carroll was founded to provide teachers and tutors with courses that emphasize a direct, multisensory, and systematic approach based on principles that have proven effective in dealing with language-based learning disabilities. The goal is to make Carroll’s educational methods more widely accessible to teachers who are working with student populations similar to ours.

In June 2008, eight individuals graduated from the GIFTT program after participating in the nine-month Orton-Gillingham teacher training.

Shown from left to right are: Maureen Grunst- Supervisor, Astrid Jacob, Kate Kumler, Louise Freese- Director of Teacher Training, Barbara Lauback, Anne Koerner, Greely Summers, Liza Feldman- Carroll teacher, and Linda Green. (Missing from the photo is Ellen Fitzgerald). Carroll is thrilled that most of these graduates will be tutoring at our school beginning in September.

In addition to the yearlong program, GIFTT offers an intense six-week Orton-Gillingham Teacher Training summer program as well which began on June 23. The participants come from a variety of educational backgrounds and far-reaching locations. Carroll is delighted to have a total of 17 trainees from New England as well as Hong Kong and Jamaica. As part of Carroll's outreach efforts, our school welcomes experienced teachers from the Boston Renaissance Charter School, the Home for Little Wanderers, and the Lilla Frederick Pilot Middle School in Dorchester. And in coordination with the MGH Institute of Health Professionals, the summer program welcomes 5 educators who are studying to achieve a Certificate of Advanced Study in Reading.