AchieveKids Palo Alto

Athena Academy is a private elementary and middle school in Palo Alto for kids with dyslexia and twice-exceptional (2e) learners — bright students who also have a learning difference. Classes are small, so teachers can keep up with where each student actually is. Reading and writing are taught with an Orton-Gillingham approach, the structured, multisensory method built for dyslexic learners. On-site speech-language and occupational therapy, along with social skills groups, are part of the regular school day rather than tacked on. Each student works from an individualized plan that names their strengths, not just their gaps. The school also runs summer programs and builds in real-world and vocational skills as students get older.

Bowman School, located in Palo Alto, California, offers an outstanding Montessori education for children from 12 weeks to 12th grade, emphasizing the development of the whole child. The school serves a diverse student body, including those with language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptional learners, through a nurturing and inclusive environment. Bowman's core mission revolves around fostering curiosity and critical thinking through an integrated curriculum that encourages experiential learning. Students engage with materials that stimulate their senses, allowing them to explore concepts deeply and interconnectively across disciplines. The Montessori approach is tailored to developmental stages, featuring multi-age classrooms where children can thrive at their own pace. Programs are designed to inspire wonder and understanding while promoting responsible citizenship and kindness within the community. Unique differentiators include a low student-teacher ratio of 10:1, which ensures personalized attention; a year-round program catering to busy families; and a rich cultural diversity represented by families from over 30 nations. With an emphasis on global perspectives and meaningful contributions, Bowman School prepares students not just academically but also as engaged citizens ready to navigate the complexities of the world.

Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School is a nurturing TK-8 community day school located in Palo Alto, dedicated to fostering the intellectual and emotional growth of students aged 4 to 14. The school's core mission emphasizes academic excellence intertwined with Jewish values, creating an environment where children are encouraged to think critically, ask meaningful questions, and develop ethical understanding. With a strong focus on individualized learning, Hausner employs innovative programs and therapeutic methodologies that cater to diverse learning needs, including those with language-based learning disabilities and twice-exceptional students. The school's unique approach is marked by its low student-teacher ratio of 6:1 in the lower school, which allows for personalized attention and support. Additionally, Hausner prioritizes strong family partnerships and community engagement through various events that enrich the student experience. This commitment to holistic development ensures that students not only achieve academically but also grow into courageous self-advocates and thoughtful leaders within their communities.