Cardinal Newman High School is launching the Cupertino Program, a specialized academic support initiative for students with dyslexia, dysgraphia and other language-based learning differences.
“As awareness and diagnosis of language-based learning differences continue to grow, the Cupertino Program reflects Cardinal Newman’s commitment to supporting every learner while maintaining our high academic standards,” Cardinal Newman President Charles Stembler said.
Administered by Orton-Gillingham certified educator Amy McGuigan, the Cupertino Program will welcome its inaugural class for the 2026–27 school year, initially serving students in ninth and 10th grades diagnosed with dyslexia or dysgraphia through a psychoeducational evaluation.
Named after St. Joseph of Cupertino, the patron saint of students and exam takers, the program reflects his perseverance in overcoming academic challenges and the belief that every student can succeed with the right support.
The Cupertino Program complements Cardinal Newman’s college-preparatory curriculum through a dedicated academic support class focused on individualized literacy instruction. Using evidence-based teaching strategies, students receive targeted instruction in reading, spelling, vocabulary, writing and morphology to strengthen literacy skills, build confidence and develop greater academic independence.
According to the International Dyslexia Association, dyslexia is the most common language-based learning disability, affecting an estimated 15 to 20 percent of the population and serving as a leading cause of reading, writing and spelling difficulties.
“The Cupertino Program helps us live out our mission of educating the whole person — spirit, mind and body,” McGuigan said. “My hope is that this program helps students build confidence, develop the skills they need to succeed, and recognize that dyslexia is not something to be ashamed of.”
Prior to the start of the school year, Cardinal Newman faculty will participate in “A Day in the Life with Dyslexia,” a professional development workshop that equips teachers with practical strategies to better recognize, understand and support students with dyslexia in the classroom.
Among the few programs of its kind within a college-preparatory high school in Palm Beach County, the Cupertino Program reflects Cardinal Newman’s ongoing commitment to educational excellence and ensuring that students with language-based learning differences have every opportunity to succeed.
Founded in 1961, Cardinal Newman is a Catholic college preparatory high school in West Palm Beach. For 65 years, the school has built a legacy of excellence through faith, scholarship, servant leadership and a strong family atmosphere. Learn more at www.cardinalnewman.com.
