Our Mission Statement
Magnolia Speech School exists to enable children with communication disorders (without regard to race, creed or color) to reach their full potential by providing them with listening, speaking and literacy skills.

Our Philosophy
It is the belief of Magnolia Speech School that barriers imposed by deafness and language impairments can frequently be overcome through early identification and intervention. It is believed these children need a specialized, self-contained classroom now in order to learn the language necessary to function in other academic settings later. These children must receive as much individualized instruction as possible; as well as, full parental support and involvement. Parents and staff must work as a team with mutual trust and respect in order for the child to succeed.

Magnolia Speech School treats the whole child by promoting success in learning, social interaction, emotional stability, and intellectual and physical development while emphasizing the concept of being a worthwhile individual. The educational program for each child is individually designed and emphasizes the development of communicative, cognitive and social skills, which will facilitate the child's integration into society. The staff is dedicated to the promotion of a positive attitude toward learning through positive reinforcement and encouragement. It is the school's ultimate goal to complete this program ready to enter other educational programs appropriate to their educational needs. At Magnolia Speech School, we believe speech and oral language are every child's birthright. We feel if it is possible for a child to develop oral communication skills, he should be given the opportunity.

Our History

In the early 1950's a group of parents of hearing-impaired children in Jackson, Mississippi began to search for a means to teach their children to talk. These parents struggled with problems of financial support, facilities, and teacher capabilities. Finally in September 1956, Magnolia Speech School, Inc. was chartered with Mrs. Elizabeth S. Matthews as its Director. Under her very capable leadership, the school provided training to hearing-impaired and language-impaired children for over 18 years. The school grew from a single class of seven to several classes, outgrowing facilities one after the other.

During these early years, Mrs. Matthews began to notice a few of the hearing-impaired children were having difficulties with memory and seemed to learn differently from the others. Through this very important distinction, the school's program for language disordered children was born. Mrs. Matthews had studied with Mildred McGiniss to learn the Association Method. After continued success using this Method, Magnolia began to document and refine a cohesive program based on this methodology.

In 1974, following Mrs. Matthews announcement of her retirement, the Board of Directors sought out Dr. Charles Gammel to assume her duties. In the same year, ground was broken for a new building. The children moved into the new building in the spring of 1975. By this time, the costs had run over $1 million dollars, yet money was never used from the school's tuition or operating fund for the facility. The school was built on community donations and community spirit, and that feeling lives on in the building today.

Magnolia continued to grow and prosper, becoming more widely recognized for its excellence in service, emphasis on auditory skill development, and willingness to adapt programs to meet children's needs. Within a few years the school had gained full Accreditation by the State Department of Education and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Shortly thereafter, an emphasis was placed on expansion of services into new and innovative areas. An evaluation clinic with audiological services and a hearing aid bank was established. A hearing aid bank was established. Students in regular schools began to receive services from our mainstream program. Soon it became necessary to seek aid for low-income families and minority children who had begun to come in great numbers. A parent-infant program was added to the school's education services as it became obvious the earlier intervention began, and the more the parents understood their child's needs, the better chance there was for success.

In 1991, Dr. Charles Gammel, our long-time director, retired and was replaced with interim Director, Melinda H. Trotti. Mrs. Trotti was formerly the Director of Dogwood School for Speech and Language-Impaired Children, whose program was merged with Magnolia's the same year. This merger allowed the school to provide services to children at a more efficient cost to their families and the community.

In June, 1994, Anne Sullivan, M. Ed., was appointed as Executive Director of Magnolia Speech School. With certifications in both hearing impaired and speech and language education, Mrs. Sullivan was no stranger to Magnolia. She had spent 14 years, working from student teacher to Assistant Director, prior to leaving for a teaching position at Mississippi College in nearby Clinton, MS. After eight years at Mississippi College, Anne Sullivan returned with a renewed spirit and deep dedication to the program she knew and loved.

The beginning of the 21st century finds Magnolia Speech School balancing tradition with the dynamics of the times. Technology and research now offer new opportunities for our population. Magnolia joins other "Option" auditory/oral programs nationwide in serving children with cochlear implants. In addition, we are one of this country's pioneer programs in coupling sensory integration and classroom instruction. A revised, updated and unique "Magnolia Curriculum" is now the foundation for our instruction, provided by skilled teachers and support staff in small groups and in individual therapy.

In spite of recent changes, Magnolia Speech School maintains its original mission: To provide an auditory-oral school for hearing-impaired and language-disordered children, which prepares these children for eventual entry into the fast-paced, speaking world in which they must live.

The Magnolia Speech School 733 Flag Chapel Road Jackson, MS 39209 601-922-5530 sullivandirector@comcast.net

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