March 3, 2009

AIM~Academy In Manayunk, which opened its doors at 169 Conarroe Street in 2006 as a resource for students, families and educators in the field of learning disabilities, expanded to a second building in Manayunk in February 2009—119 Rector Street.  The Rector Street building was previously the home of St. John the Baptist’s High School and will now be the Upper School of the Academy—currently grades 6-9 but will grow one grade a year until it has a complete high school through 12th grade.

Parents, trustees, faculty and staff gathered Tuesday evening for an official ribbon cutting for the new Upper School and to share in a discussion with Board Vice Chair Matthew Naylor.  Naylor, CEO of The Elite Companies and one of Philadelphia Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2008, was the inaugural recipient of the Sally L. Smith Founder’s Award at the AIM for the Stars gala in the fall.  The award was given in recognition of his inspiration and devotion to youngsters with learning disabilities. Sally L. Smith founded The Lab School of Washington® in 1967, which is internationally recognized for its innovative programs for children and adults with learning disabilities. AIM~Academy In Manayunk replicates Smith’s model, teaching philosophy and college-preparatory approach.

In a joint statement, Sam Greenblatt, chair of the AIM board of trustees, Pat Roberts, executive director, and Nancy Blair, associate director and director of admissions (pictured at ribbon cutting with Naylor), commended Naylor for his achievements and benevolence. “Matt is an inspiration. We can never thank him enough for how openly he shares his struggle of overcoming severe learning challenges to become CEO of the Elite Family of Companies. As a member of our board, he works closely with the school to ensure that AIM students receive the tools they need to overcome similar learning challenges they face every day.”  Naylor resides in Malvern with his wife Heather and their five children.  The Elite Family of Companies is headquartered in Exton, PA.

Refreshments for the evening were generously donated by two nearby Manayunk establishments – Derek’s restaurant and the Manayunk Brewery.