ABOUT OUR LEARNING CENTER
Personalized Learning Experience for Every Child, In-Person, Online, and Small Group Settings
Our mission is to support all children in building strong foundations in reading, writing, science, and math while offering immersive programs that inspire curiosity, confidence, and a love for learning.
MEET OUR FOUNDER
Dr. Maria Casale’s Journey of Excellence in Special Education
Educational Background and Specializations
Dr. Casale holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education, with studies in Special Education and English, and a Master of Science Degree as a Reading Specialist. She is also a New York State certified School-Based Instructional Leader (SBL). Her certifications span some of the most prestigious institutions in the country: Dr. Casale holds professional certifications as a Reading Recovery Specialist from New York University (NYU) and in curriculum development from Teacher’s College, Columbia University. Notably, Dr. Casale holds the honor of being a Nationally Board-Certified Teacher (NBPTS), one of the highest teaching accolades in the United States. She is also a board-certified practitioner of the Academy of Orton-Gillingham Practitioners and Educators (AOGPE) and a board-certified Dyslexia Therapist of the International Dyslexia Association (IDA).
Extensive Professional Experience
Dr. Casale's career spans diverse roles across various educational institutions. She has worked as an elementary school teacher, a Response to Intervention (RtI) reading interventionist, and a mentor for educators pursuing National Board Teacher Certification. As a former adjunct professor of graduate studies at Wagner College, Dr. Casale shared her extensive knowledge with future educators. Her leadership positions include serving as an NYC public school Assistant Principal and NYC Educational Administrator. She also served as the Director of Intervention for New York City’s Chancellor’s Office of Response to Intervention (RtI), where she played a crucial role in shaping intervention strategies across the school system. One of her most notable achievements was co-founding Bridge Preparatory School on Staten Island in 2019. Bridge Prep is the first charter school in the NYC area specifically designed for children with dyslexia and language-based disabilities, a milestone that reflects Dr. Casale’s unwavering commitment to helping students with learning differences.
Current Role & Contributions
Today, Dr. Casale serves as the Educational Director of LEAP, where she continues to lead with passion and expertise. At our center, she provides our providers with access to mentorship, guidance, and support in implementing evidence-based, content-specific teaching practices and scientifically-based literacy methods.
As a board-certified Orton-Gillingham practitioner and licensed Reading Specialist, Dr. Casale equips our team with intervention-based resources, materials, and professional development opportunities. She shares cutting-edge research on Science of Reading (SoR) teaching practices, supports online training, and guides our staff in analyzing assessments and aligning curriculum resources with intervention measures. Her expertise is invaluable in creating progress reports, conducting educational evaluations, and interpreting data to ensure our students receive the best possible support.
At the heart of our educational mission is Dr. Maria Casale, a distinguished professional with over 25 years of experience as an educator and Educational Leader. With a Doctorate Degree in Advanced Studies in Special Education from Liberty University, Dr. Casale brings a wealth of knowledge, dedication, and leadership to our team. Her deep expertise as a curriculum expert and dyslexia specialist sets her apart as a vital figure in shaping the educational practices at our center.
Leading The Future Of Education
Dr. Casale’s role as Educational Director extends beyond mentorship and guidance—she is a visionary leader who continuously strives to elevate our teaching practices and ensure that every child, regardless of their learning differences, has access to high-quality education. Her dedication to evidence-based practices, ongoing professional development, and collaboration with a wide range of specialists makes her an indispensable part of our team. Through her leadership, our center continues to engage students and families in meaningful ways, from sharing student photos and videos to encouraging parent observations of our specialized teaching practices. Dr. Casale’s impact is felt not only by our team of professionals but by every child and family we serve.
What Parents Say About Us
"My child has dyslexia. She has been seeing Dr. Maria Casale for years. I can honestly say that if it weren't for her, my child would be in a school for children with learning disabilities. Thanks to Dr. Casale, my child is not only in a mainstream school but is also doing extremely well. As a result, my child's anxieties about attending school and the depression that she had due to her inability to complete her school work are completely eliminated. I cannot thank Dr. Casale and LEAP enough for enabling my child to have a good life and be successful at school."
Natalie M., Mother
What Parents Say About Us
"My 2 kids have made amazing improvements since they started at LEAP. They have grown academically, psychologically, and emotionally due to the caring environment. Dr. Maria Casale helped me to understand better what my kids with ADHD need. She spent much time helping me to connect with the right professionals. She and her team really care about my kids. LEAP is the first place where I am sure my kids are in good hands and receive the maximum support they need."
Nataliya K., Mother
What Parents Say About Us
"My daughter has made tremendous strides academically, socially, and emotionally since then. LEAP's program is a supplement to homeschooling, and not only gives her support in her core subjects, but also provides an exceptional, curated, and interactive learning experience in areas such as movement, cooking, and world cultures."
Rachel M., Mother
OUR TEAM
Dr. Maria Casale
CEO & Co-Founder
Educational Director
George Casale
Co-Founder
Chief Creative Officer
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Claudia Pappallardo
Office Manager
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Anna Calamari
Executive Director of Progeams
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Dr. Daniella
Lead Teacher
Orton Gillingham Specialist
Ms. Gabriella
Early Childhood Lead Teacher
Orton Gillingham Specialist
Ms. Joan
Lead Teacher
Science
Ms. Daniella
Early Childhood Specialist
Ms. Kelly
Lead Teacher
Early Childhood
Ms. Theresa
Lead Teacher
Social Studies
Ms. Mary Ann
Lead Teacher
Ms. Eleni
Orton Gillingham Specialist
Ms. Marie
Mathematical Specialist
Ms. Geri
Speech Pathologist
Ms. Mary
Orton Gillingham Specialist
Ms. Kristina
Orton Gillingham Specialist
Ms. Olivia
Orton Gillingham Specialist
Ms. Mary Kate
Orton Gillingham Specialist