Neil Squire Regional Manager and Assistive Technology and Learning Disability Specialist, Charles Levasseur (new window) was the recipient of a Learning Disabilities Association of New Brunswick (new window) award at their awards gala on October 22.
Charles has dedicated the last 18 years to supporting students with learning disabilities and believes strongly in their ability to learn and succeed using proper strategies and assistive technology (AT). His work in the field is more than a job, it is his passion. Charles remains current and is always a patient teacher of AT with students, their parents, and professionals. He never turns away a student, a parent, caregiver, teacher, or professional in need of support, advice, or full AT assessment or consultation. He is an excellent mentor to the staff he supervises and sets a wonderful example of a dedicated advocate for people with learning disabilities and their ability to overcome them.
“I am extremely honored to receive an award at your very first ever gala,” said Charles. “As some of you know, my team and I help individuals with learning disabilities to select and use assistive technology based on their specific needs. Assistive technology is such an important piece of the puzzle for those individuals. It not only helps eliminate many barriers, but it can also help someone become more independent, more confident, and increase their self esteem, just to name a few of the advantages.
“COVID-19 brought many negative changes to our world, but being an optimistic person, I always like to look at the bright side of things and find the silver lining. Since the beginning of COVID we were all forced to use new technology. Many of you found it to be scary and complicated, some of you simply can’t wait to get back to your new normal. The good news is, this forced use of technology, helped our educational institutions accept the fact that proper use of technology is critical for learning needs. Simple things like better wifi in schools, content in digital formats, introduction to new learning environments such as Teams, and the accepted use of home technology shows a big improvement already. Of course, we are not done. There is still lots to do, but this is why I continue to push for proper use of technology even when we return to the new normal, whatever that might be.
“In closing, I need to mention that I am extremely grateful for the individuals I work with at Neil Squire. Their dedication to the cause is amazing and I could not ask for a better team. This award will definitely be shared with all of them. This also extends to the Learning Disabilities Association of New Brunswick. You guys do great work. I hear nothing but great things from the people I meet. Congratulations on your 50th anniversary and keep up the great work.”
Atlantic Regional Manger, Bev Grasse, accepted the award on Charles’ behalf as he was unable to attend the gala.
Congratulations, Charles!