The resource specialist program is celebrating its 30th anniversary. The idea of an RSP program was first formulated in 1992 but became an official program at Riordan two years later, in 1994. The beginning of an essential support system for students with mild to moderate learning disabilities.
Today, Riordan is one of the few Catholic schools that offers a program specifically designed to support students with diagnosed learning challenges, ensuring they have access to the resources and accommodations needed to succeed academically and personally. The RSP program develops individual strategies for each student’s academic success.
As the student body grows, so does the RSP program. Originally starting out with roughly 30 students, the program now serves more than 160 students, with a dedicated team of coordinators and specialists who work diligently to provide individualized support for each student. This significant growth is evidence of the program’s success and its vital role in helping students overcome barriers to learning.
Stephanie Lundin, the current Director of the RSP program, has seen this progression firsthand. She explained what makes the program so special: “Our students not only grasp a better understanding of their own learning styles but they gain the skills needed to manage their learning disability by figuring out what accommodations best help them learn, and most importantly how to advocate for themselves.”
The focus on self-advocacy empowers students to use the tools given to them to navigate challenges both inside and outside the classroom. The RSP advisory committee includes experts in the field of dyslexia, cognitive functioning, communication and mental health. Each student receives personalized attention and is provided with strategies that cater to their unique needs. Whether it’s specialized note-taking, extra time on tests, or catered instruction in specific subjects.
Jamont Brown ’26 shared how the program has positively impacted his educational experience. He said, “Knowing that if I don’t understand something in class, I don’t have to freak out because I know that my RSP teacher will help me.”
This sense of reassurance and support has helped students like Jamont feel more confident in their abilities, leading to increased academic success and most importantly a greater sense of well-being.
Susan Rissotto, a mother of a former RSP student, said, “ When my son started school he thought I’m probably not going to college, that thought was gone by junior year because of RSP!”
Last year, 94 percent of RSP graduates attended two or four year colleges.This high college acceptance rate shows the effectiveness of the program and its goal in preparing students for a higher education despite their challenges. The impact of the RSP program goes beyond the classroom. The students gain skills such as problem-solving, self-awareness, and time management which prepares them for success in college and beyond.
In fact, the program’s success is reflected in the outcomes of its students. Rissotto also offered a piece of advice to future students and parents of RSP.
“If you are thinking of Riordan for your son or daughter , one word of advice would be to trust the process and trust the staff at Riordan. My son learned how to advocate for himself, gained confidence and independence all while loving the environment of the school. He went through the program and ended up succeeding”
Looking ahead, the resource specialist program will continue to grow and change itself depending on the needs of the students in the Riordan community. Celebrating 30 years is a huge accomplishment for a program that is truly life-changing for students. RSP and its committed team of educators and experts will ensure the program will carry on with its long lasting impact for many years to come.
