The Department of Child Development, Literacy and Special Education offers opportunities for students to gain hands-on experiential learning while also providing services to the community.
Anderson Reading Clinic
The Anderson Reading Clinic is the only university-based clinic in North Carolina that offers year-round teacher training, along with diagnostic and remedial reading services to children in the community, providing direct service to children with reading disabilities - approximately 15 hours per child of one-to-one reading and writing instruction.
Parent to Parent Family Support Network - High Country
The Parent to Parent Family Support Network - High Country provides support, education, and caring connections to families who have children with diverse physical, emotional, intellectual, or health needs; a child born prematurely; or are grieving the death of a child. The annual Spooky Duke 5K/10K race helps raise money to support families.
Lucy Brock Child Development Lab
The Lucy Brock Child Development Lab serves as a model and professional preparation site for individuals working with young children. Lucy Brock provides access to high-quality care for young children and their families and serves as a model program that reflects current recommended best practices, as well as a site for developing new and innovative practices.
Scholars with Diverse Abilities Program
The Scholars with Diverse Abilities Program prepares college-aged students with intellectual disabilities for personal growth and occupational success. The goal upon completion of the program is that students obtain competitive, integrated employment and live independent, fulfilling lives.