What They're Saying
See what people say who’ve been partners in
Learning Shire consulting services …
“We participated in the process of holding a class for several of our students, which Patty planned & taught using the story & film, Brokeback Mountain to explore the depth & meaning of human relationship. She tailored the content to adolescent students and they rated the learning experience highly. Upon completion of the course, she provided us with a fully-crafted course plan, complete with materials & resources. Any teacher wanting to provide students with insights into human relationships will find this ready-to-teach course inspirational & productive. Patty is a gifted teacher who nurtures & guides the process with her students.”
– Richard Sidwell
Head of School, Olney Friends School, Barnesville, Ohio
“Patty is insightful, responsible, and ambitious. The work she produces is always of the highest quality and her presentation skills are exceptional. She is quick to identify group members’ abilities & interests and to seek unifying points around which to support their efforts. The program she developed based on Brokeback Mountain explores issues of non-violence through film, writing, discussion and art, and was widely hailed as innovative, powerful, and a shining success.”
– Jeff Ritchey, DEd,
Associate Professor, Adult & Community Education, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
“Patty has the special ability to relate on a personal level to teenagers as well as adults, and this allowed her to connect with the students at our high school. Certain people & experiences are able to open others to discussion of very deep & meaningful issues. Patty’s personality is warm & caring, which immediately puts students at ease and sets the tone for her workshops. She exudes a palpable love for her work and a high degree of professionalism. I feel honored to have had her visit our school as a teacher and believe the students she worked with were impacted positively … and in years to come, I’m certain their personalities will be shaped by the experience.”
– Christina Basler, Former Faculty, Humanities Department, Olney Friends School
Browse what people say as participants in
Learning Shire programs …
“This was a day well spent. I often don’t remember details from workshops that I attend, but I’ve found myself thinking about the day and going back to the materials. I know I’m going to use these ideas in my work.”
– Larry, Professor of Social Geography & Organic Farmer
“I loved the Brokeback Mountain class! I learned a lot from the guided questions and materials, and from the wonderful thoughts of other participants as we progressed through the day. Please put me on your list for future classes!”
– Julianne, Artist & Administrative Assistant
“Great job pushing us to think in larger terms – I loved all the tools you use and would like to do a longer workshop with even more time for small group sessions & sharing.”
– Nicholas, Performing Artist & Pharmacy Assistant
“I absolutely loved the discussion groups and the small group activities. I felt like I really took a lot away on many levels, and the discussions have stayed with me.”
– Kimberly, Certified Public Accountant & Homeschooling Parent
“It was a great day. I have an even deeper appreciation of the story’s beautiful imagery & power. I’m now challenging myself about the labels I will or won’t use to describe myself. I know my participation in the workshop has helped me to spend more time considering & exploring new ideas. Thanks so much for the inspiration you give.”
– Mell, Teacher & Community Organizer