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Community Lecture Series

Expert perspectives. Practical strategies. Meaningful conversations about learning.

The Southport School’s Community Lecture Series connects families, educators, professionals, and community members with expert perspectives and practical resources related to learning, cognitive development, literacy, executive function, student well-being, and school success.

Hosted both in person and virtually, the series features local and nationally recognized speakers who bring current research, professional expertise, lived experience, and timely perspectives to topics that matter to learners and the people who support them.

Each program is designed to make important ideas accessible and useful. Topics explore emerging issues, evidence-informed practices, and available resources, offering participants greater understanding and practical strategies they can apply across home, school, and community settings.

Through the Community Lecture Series, The Southport School extends its commitment to educating, informing, and empowering the broader community – creating opportunities to learn together and strengthen our understanding and support for learners across a wide range of strengths, needs, and settings.

All Community Lecture Series events are free and open to the public.
 

Upcoming Events

Friday, October 16, 2026 l 8:30 am-3:30 pm

Dyslexia in the Schools: When Dyslexia, ADHD, and Anxiety Coexist
A simulcast of The Dyslexia Foundation Conference from Boston University

Presentations include:

  • The Neuroscience of Anxiety and ADHD, AUGUSTO BUCHWEITZ, PH.D.
  • Dyslexia, ADHD, and Anxiety - Assessment and Medical Management, DAVID URION, MD
  • Dyslexia, ADHD, and Anxiety, LAUREN MCGRATH, PH.D.
  • Managing Anxiety in Schools, AMIE GRILLS, PH.D., CHELSEY BOWMAN, PH.D., PHIL CAPIN, PH.D.
  • Practical Strategies for Managing Anxiety and ADHD for Students Who Also Have Dyslexia, PHIL CAPIN, PH.D., YIFAN FU

This free screening, presented by The Southport School Community Lecture Series, includes breakfast and lunch. 

Location: Tavormina Hall, The Southport School
Registration: Click to register. 
 
Thursday, December 10, 2026 l 6:30-8 pm

Could It Be Dyslexia? A Parent's Guide to Early Identification and Support 
Kristen Viesselman, Literacy Specialist 

When reading is difficult, it can be hard to know what is part of typical development and what may signal dyslexia. This session will help parents understand how children learn to read, recognize common characteristics and early signs of dyslexia, and make sense of screening and progress-monitoring data.

Participants will also learn what questions to ask about their child’s reading progress and explore possible next steps, including school-based interventions, special education referrals, and strategies for supporting reading at home.


Location: Virtual 
Registration: Link coming soon

Wednesday, January 13, 2027 l 6:30-8 pm

Seeing the Whole Child: Why Strengths Matter in Addressing Learning Differences
Dr. Christopher Bogart, PhD, Co-founder and Senior Psychologist, Sasco River Center

When a child struggles with dyslexia, executive function, or another learning challenge, it can be easy to focus on what needs to improve. But what happens when we step back and look at the whole child?

Drawing on more than 35 years of experience working with children, families, and schools, Dr. Christopher Bogart will explore how understanding a child’s strengths, learning profile, motivation, and sense of self can shape more effective support. Parents will leave with practical ways to identify and build on their child’s strengths and a deeper appreciation for how confidence, motivation, and a positive sense of self can support academic growth.

Location: Virtual
Registration: Link coming soon
 
Wednesday, March 24, 2027 l 6:30-8:00 pm

Be the CALM in the Storm: Parenting with Purpose and Confidence
Andree Palmgren, M.A., Ed.M, LPC

Anxiety can affect how children think, learn, connect, and respond to everyday challenges, particularly during times of change and transition. This session will help parents better understand the stress response system and how anxiety can influence behavior. Participants will learn a practical framework for responding to an anxious child with greater calm and confidence, along with strategies for supporting children through transitions, uncertainty, and other stressful moments.

The goal is to help parents become a steady, supportive presence while strengthening their child’s coping skills, confidence, and sense of security.

Location: Tavormina Hall, The Southport School and Virtual 
Registration: Link coming soon