Thistle Learning Center - TLC

Yes, I know it’s February and this is just landing on your feed… but some things are simply too good not to celebrate.

Between Valentine’s Day reminding us to lead with heart and Presidents Day reminding us to lead with courage and vision, February feels like the perfect time to pause and recognize growth in action.

At Thistle Learning Center, this season is full of momentum at every level.

Our juniors are visiting college campuses and imagining what’s next.
Seniors are confirming college placements and making those big final decisions.
New college-bound students are beginning their surveys so we can thoughtfully curate personalized college lists aligned with their strengths, goals, and values.
High school students are forecasting next year’s courses- making smart, strategic choices that support both academic growth and balance.

And our elementary school readers, writers, and math learners? They are thriving. The learning curve is truly in their favor right now. Foundational skills are strengthening, confidence is growing, and we’re seeing those “click” moments happen more and more each week. When early literacy and math foundations are supported well, momentum builds and it’s such a joy to watch.

And yes… we’re solidifying our summer service learning opportunities. Big things ahead.

Love and leadership are themes we talk about often- loving the process, leading your own learning, and building the executive function skills that make both possible.

We’re excited to expand our Executive Function (EF) programming to include a monthly TLC: EF Parent Lab series.

This monthly lab is designed to give parents practical, real-world tools to help students strengthen focus, organization, and confidence.

Our next session still has spots available.

We’ll begin with a brief refresher on what Executive Function is, and then take a deeper dive into Planning and Prioritization- two skills that truly change everything.

You’ll walk away with:

* Clear language to talk about EF at home
* A simple planning framework you can implement immediately
* Strategies to reduce overwhelm and procrastination
* Tools to support independence without micromanaging

If you’ve been meaning to join us, this is your moment. We would love to have you learn alongside this incredible community.

As I reflect on the start of 2026, I’m reminded that growth, grit, and a little audaciousness get results. I’m beyond grateful to walk alongside these bold, brilliant students and families. This community inspires me daily.

Here’s to leading with heart, thinking boldly, and building the skills that create confident, capable young adults — from our earliest learners to our graduating seniors.

With love and big, bold cheer,
Dr. Trish xo 💛

Happy Holidays!

As we head into the holiday season, I am thrilled to share some exciting news. Our students are earning college acceptances to Santa Clara University, Lewis & Clark College, Willamette University, Oregon State University, Western Washington University, Connecticut College, Eckerd College, University of San Francisco, and Montana State University, and this is just the beginning!

We are so incredibly proud of our EF kiddos for the growth they’ve shown along the way. From working through time management challenges and developing sustainable routines, to meeting daily academic content goals that maximize their grade potential, to self advocating in ways they hadn’t before, these are all meaningful wins worth celebrating.

And our emerging readers? They are flying! Students are tackling text with confidence, cracking the code of language, and decoding with increasing fluency and pride. Watching them move from hesitation to “I’ve got this” has been pure joy.

As I reflect on 2025, I am filled with gratitude for the students and families who have trusted me to support their most precious beings. It is truly an honor to walk alongside you and support you as you reach for the stars. ✨

Warm holiday wishes to all!