News Summary
Horizon Academy in Kansas City is gaining attention for its specialized support for children with dyslexia and learning disabilities. The academy offers individualized instruction and a nurturing environment, helping students like Henry Dunbar and Lily Reardon thrive academically. By focusing on parental involvement and using innovative teaching methods such as the Orton-Gillingham approach, Horizon Academy has seen significant success. With growing enrollment and a commitment to accessibility, the institution continues to meet the needs of families seeking effective educational solutions for dyslexia.
Kansas City
Families in the Kansas City area are increasingly turning to Horizon Academy for specialized support in addressing dyslexia and other learning disabilities. The private institution offers a tailored educational environment for children who struggle with traditional academic settings, focusing on individualized instruction and fostering a supportive community for both students and parents.
Among the families benefiting from Horizon Academy is the Dunbar family, who chose to homeschool their five children to stay close to Aaron Dunbar, an air traffic controller. Despite their efforts, they faced challenges, particularly with their 10-year-old son, Henry. After exploring various educational options, including delaying kindergarten and utilizing public special education services, it became evident that Henry was discouraged in conventional schooling. Following a diagnosis of a severe auditory processing disorder and symptoms of dyslexia, the Dunbars sought a more suitable learning environment for their son.
Since enrolling in Horizon Academy, Henry has thrived in a program designed specifically for students with dyslexia and similar challenges. The academy’s small class sizes, individualized instruction, and trained faculty have significantly aided Henry’s academic journey, enabling him to excel in hands-on learning.
Another parent, Kelly Reardon, also turned to Horizon Academy for her daughter, Lily, who had faced difficulties with early reading skills and was diagnosed with dyslexia. After receiving an appropriate diagnosis and support, Lily showed remarkable improvements in her academic performance and self-esteem after joining the academy. This pattern reflects a larger trend: parents are finding success through Horizon Academy’s unique approach to education.
Horizon Academy emphasizes parental involvement and education regarding dyslexia, providing families with resources and support to navigate their children’s learning hurdles. The school’s success is partly attributed to its innovative teaching methods, which address both the emotional and academic struggles of its students. The academy maintains a low student-to-teacher ratio, allowing for focused, skill-level organized classes that further enhance the educational experience.
Utilizing the Orton-Gillingham approach, a multisensory teaching method known for its effectiveness with dyslexic students, Horizon Academy tailors instruction to meet the varied needs of its learners. The commitment to individualized education means that students not only receive targeted assistance but also have the opportunity to develop their strengths while overcoming challenges.
Horizon Academy is open to full-time students and offers tutoring options for those unable to afford the full tuition, which nears $30,000 annually. This flexibility makes the academy more accessible to families seeking specialized support. However, the academy faces challenges in terms of tuition costs, leading to ongoing discussions regarding the need for increased scholarships and financial assistance for those in need.
As of fall 2024, Horizon Academy has achieved significant growth with 117 students and 46 faculty members dedicated to catering to children with learning disabilities. The demand for its services continues to rise as families seek proper support for dyslexia within traditional school systems, highlighting a critical need within the community.
The emphasis on helping students regain confidence and enjoyment in learning is a core aspect of Horizon Academy’s approach. By creating a nurturing environment that addresses both academic challenges and emotional well-being, the academy is making meaningful strides in the lives of children with learning disabilities, fostering a sense of accomplishment and self-worth among its students.
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Additional Resources
- KCJC: Two Jewish Women Lead Horizon Academy
- Wikipedia: Dyslexia
- KSHB: Hope on Horizon
- Google Search: Horizon Academy Kansas City
- Fox4KC: Family Helps Students After Tragedy
- Google Scholar: Dyslexia Education
- Mid Florida Newspapers: Lake County School Construction
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Dyslexia
- Johnson County Post: Good News
- Google News: Special Education
