Susie van der Vorst, Academic Director, is a  Fellow of the Academy of Orton-Gillingham Practitioners and Educators, an accrediting organization with the highest standards. She originally trained under Diana H. King at the Kildonan School and Camp Dunnabeck. She has used Orton-Gillingham since 1989 in both public and private sectors, teaching both dyslexic and non dyslexics from ages 4-45. She has presented nationally in Atlanta, San Diego and Philadelphia to name a few. Her passion is to empower dyslexic students and all those who interact with them. Her ultimate goal is to see all teachers everywhere getting the Orton-Gillingham principles in their initial training as a teacher.
 

Steve van der Vorst, Program Director, received his training from Amsterdam University in the Netherlands where he concentrated on teaching and arts. He worked at Camp Dunnabeck every summer from 1984-1993 as counselor, assistant program director, and waterfront director. He often filled in wherever he was needed which makes him very versatile. His Dunnabeck experience gives him expertise in dealing with self-confidence and social issues with dyslexics. Steve works with the counselors closely to insure a strong connection to the children they are supervising. He has a wonderful rapport with children of all ages. He is an experienced contractor giving him the ability to teach kids how to build and create safe structures such as our foot bridge and tree house.

We bring mature and enthusiastic counselors from all around the world who speak English well to broaden the cultural experiences of our campers.
 Meet Our Counselors from 2007:



"My experience at Camp Spring Creek has been unforgettable. More than a camp we have been a big family, tutors, counselors, kids, directors…

As a counselor I believe that my work at this camp has been such a positive experience that I would recommend it. The tutor’s work, as I had the opportunity to see it, was excellent. They made everything so easy and understandable…even for me as a foreigner it was useful!! It was such an experience coming to this camp!!"

Francisco Garcia
Spain

It seems to be yesterday when I was in Spain packing my luggage and wondering what was waiting for me in USA, in the adventure I was about to live in Camp Spring Creek.

Now, when we are about to finish the camp, I can say that it’s being an experience of learning combined with enjoying, not only for the children, but for myself.

I’ve been learning more about children, about English language, about groups’ behavior, about me as a professional and as a human.

 Seeing them learning and enjoying everyday, overcoming difficulties and challenges…; and all  this, surrounded by an admirable scenery and great professionals working as a team to make all of us feeling like in a big family, the Camp Spring Creek Family 2007.

Teresa
Spain

"This is my first time being part of a summer camp, and no other words can describe my experience except fun, educational and hard work. The directors, tutors and fellow counselors were understanding, kind-hearted and very motivated to make this summer a blast for the campers. Not only did the camp help dyslexic children overcome learning disabilities, it teaches the adults the importance of empathy, ethics and teamwork.

This summer, the staff worked as a team and provided support for each other; it has enabled us to overcome many obstacles along the way. Last but not least, the international cultural exchange has opened my mind and soul, giving me more confidence in becoming a global citizen."

Yang
Singapore
 
We seek to hire bright men and women for our extracurricular activities who are experienced within a field (e.g., rock climbing, kayaking, horsemanship, orienteering) and who have stepped out of the difficulties of their learning disability and into the fortunes dyslexia offers. Those interested in seeking a position, please send your resume well in advance of camp.

Tutorial Staff
Our tutorial staff are trained Orton-Gillingham practitioners.
     
     

 

Camp Spring Creek:
774 Spring Creek Road
Bakersville, NC 28705
Phone: 828-688-1000
Cell: 828 231-3765
Fax: 828-688-3475
info@campspringcreek.org

Training and Outreach Center:
42B Walnut Ave
Spruce Pine, NC 28777
Phone: 828-766-5032
Cell: 828 231-3765
Fax: 828-766-5859


Orton-Gillingham
Accreditation