When a student is struggling in any school subject, whether it be reading or math, it’s important they have an after school program where they can work on those problems and strive to do better.
That place just may be the new Seven Stars Studio in Metamora.
Owned and operated by Metamora resident Susan Morey, the Christian studio caters to adults and children with learning differences and special needs, including students who are over or under challenged with their grade level work and those with special needs, like Down’s syndrome, autism, ADHD and dyslexia.
Before moving into the studio in Metamora, Morey would travel to schools, libraries and her student’s homes to tutor them. She’s had students as old as 94 and as young as three and from all over Oakland County and Metamora.
Students at Seven Stars Studio can study a variety of subjects in the areas of language arts, math, 2-D and 3-D art and a theatre and dance program.
‘Probably the most prominent one that gets people here first is the reading program,? Morey said. ‘That’s why families often notice immediately is that their children are struggling with the areas of language arts, their spelling and comprehension.?
She said sometimes parents use the other art, theatre and dance program as ‘rewards? when their child does well in the academic programs.
Students can join the Fantastic Reading Program, the Little People’s Ballet, Little People’s Theatre, as well as various art classes where they can draw comics, mold with clay and make finger puppets.
‘What I give the kids is not traditional, it’s not what you’d get in a regular classroom,? Morey said. ‘What we do is multi-sensory as opposed to just sitting in the chair. The program is altered for different individuals.?
Morey has been educating students for 36 years and has six years of degree work from the University of Michigan.
She’s taught English and creative writing to prisoners at Jackson and Adrian prisons, and founded and directed the Manchester Academy for the Arts around Ann Arbor.
She’s also worked with special needs groups, like Dreams & Wings and has created theatre productions for local nursing homes and schools.
Morey decided to open the Seven Stars Studio ‘to help those who need it most.?
‘To help those who may not live to grow-up and all they dream about is having their own art show or to be a star in a dance or theatre production or to get good grades in math and reading,? she said. ‘To help those who think they can’t, know that really they can.?
The cost is a minimal $20 per visit because Morey wants to make sure ‘no one who wants to learn is left out.?
Depending on the student, sessions can be in the morning, afternoon or after school.
All students begin with an interview to determine their needs and best placement. Call Susan Morey at (810) 441-9450 to enroll.
The Seven Stars Studio is located at 3546 S. Lapeer Rd. in the M-24 Metamora Plaza just south of Pratt Rd.