Winston Preparatory School Opens Fifth Campus In Dix Hills

Winston Preparatory School is an educational institution that serves students with a variety of learning disabilities. The school is in its 36th year and has recently opened their Dix Hills location as the organization's fifth campus. The five campuses serve more than 500 students across the tristate area.

Keith Oncale, head of Winston Preparatory School, is a firm believer that all students deserve a productive learning environment that meets their individual needs. Learn more about Winston Prep and their student-based educational model in this exclusive Patch one-on-one with Oncale.

Patch: How long has the organization you represent been around in the community?

Oncale: Winston Preparatory Long Island opened September 2018.

Patch: What attracted you to the line of work you’re in, and how did you get started?

Oncale: I have been at Winston Prep for 20 years, having served as a dean of students and academics, Theatre Arts director and a faculty member. I am a firm believer that all students do not learn in the same way or at the same pace, therefore education should be student-centered, focusing on their strengths while directly and specifically addressing areas that require remediation.

Patch: If you had to sum up your business mission to a stranger in five words, what would those words be?

Oncale: Highly responsive, diagnostic educational model.

Patch: What’s the biggest challenge or most difficult moment you’ve faced in your job?

Oncale: The ongoing challenge and biggest reward is to meet each student where they are and to create a productive learning environment where all students feel safe and respected.

Patch: What’s the most satisfying part of your job?

Oncale: The most satisfying part of my job is when students have those moments where they see themselves as successful and sustainable learners, especially in areas where they may have struggled.

Patch: How would you say your business or organization distinguishes itself from the others?

Oncale: We are a student-based educational model where the need of each student is met on a daily basis by a team of dedicated and talented professionals.

Patch: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given when it comes to success?

Oncale: Making a mistake is nothing more than an opportunity to learn something new.

Patch: Are there any new projects or endeavors you’re working on that you’re extra excited about?

Oncale: We are currently engaged in our second community outreach program for the year. Before Thanksgiving, students collected a carload of non-perishable food to donate to the INN of Long Island. We are currently collecting socks, hats, gloves and lightly used coats to donate to local shelters.

Patch: Do you have any events coming up in your community?

Our theatre production of "A Thousand Cranes" will be presented in March 2019.

Patch: How can Patch readers learn more about your work and business?

Please visit our website or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

For more information, please reach out to Karen Preston at liadmissions@winstonprep.edu or call (631) 779-2400.

This Patch article is sponsored by Winston Preparatory.

Image Credit: Winston Preparatory