Innovative Program for Children with Learning Differences Launches in NYC
In a groundbreaking initiative, The Gateway School has announced its partnership with Horizons NYC to launch the second year of a unique summer learning program specifically designed for children facing challenges such as dyslexia, ADHD, and other language-based learning differences. This collaboration marks a significant step in addressing the educational needs of under-resourced communities in New York City as schools approach their summer break.
Founded over six decades ago, The Gateway School holds a prestigious position as one of the first institutions in the nation to focus on language-based learning challenges. The summer program is a pioneering effort, being the first of its kind in New York City that caters specifically to children with these learning differences. Since its inception last summer, the program has successfully expanded its reach, providing essential academic, physical activity, and social-emotional education to children from low-income backgrounds underserved by traditional special education resources.
This year, the program has seen a remarkable increase in enrollment—doubling from the previous summer. It now includes an enriched curriculum featuring diverse activities ranging from soccer and coding clubs to Gateway’s renowned Grandstand class, which aims to enhance social and public speaking skills among participants. Additionally, this summer’s offerings have been broadened to accommodate English as a New Language (ENL) students, thereby promoting inclusivity and access to quality education for even more children.
Macy Stockton, the Executive Director of Horizons NYC, emphasized the importance of summer learning, stating that research indicates students typically lose an average of two months’ worth of academic skill development over the summer, a consequence that disproportionately affects those with language-based learning differences. "By increasing our capacity to serve these students, we are addressing a critical gap in their educational journey to ensure they can thrive when they return to school," she noted.
The program is strategically targeted toward at-risk students in low-income communities, where access to diagnoses and special education services for conditions like dyslexia and ADHD has been historically limited. Dr. Sherri Helvie, Head of School at The Gateway School, expressed her enthusiasm for this partnership, stating, "We are thrilled to continue collaborating with Horizons NYC and to expand this vital program for students who are in need of specialized education. For those with attention deficits and learning differences, summer break is not just a time of academic loss; changing routines can disrupt their significantly needed structure. Keeping these students engaged with meaningful education and enjoyable activities can greatly benefit their learning continuity."
In an effort to further enhance the program’s impact, Horizons NYC at The Gateway School has fortified its collaborations with local public schools to identify students who would most benefit from these resources. Additionally, the program is in the process of developing a volunteer initiative that will enable alumni from both Horizons and Gateway schools to contribute their time and skills, enriching the educational experience of participating children.
As a leading K-8 independent day school in New York City, The Gateway School is dedicated to transforming the lives of bright students dealing with language-based learning disabilities and attention deficits. The institution has established itself as a thought leader in the realm of special education, creating an environment where every child is recognized for their unique talents and potential. Meanwhile, Horizons NYC, a regional affiliate of Horizons National, is on a mission to promote educational equity through impactful summer and out-of-school programs that support systematically under-resourced communities. By focusing on sustained commitment and comprehensive support, Horizons NYC ensures that these children are provided with the tools, skills, and confidence needed to thrive both academically and in life.
For more information about this transformative summer program and ongoing initiatives at The Gateway School and Horizons NYC, educators and families are encouraged to reach out and explore potential involvement in this essential educational resource.
Founded over six decades ago, The Gateway School holds a prestigious position as one of the first institutions in the nation to focus on language-based learning challenges. The summer program is a pioneering effort, being the first of its kind in New York City that caters specifically to children with these learning differences. Since its inception last summer, the program has successfully expanded its reach, providing essential academic, physical activity, and social-emotional education to children from low-income backgrounds underserved by traditional special education resources.
This year, the program has seen a remarkable increase in enrollment—doubling from the previous summer. It now includes an enriched curriculum featuring diverse activities ranging from soccer and coding clubs to Gateway’s renowned Grandstand class, which aims to enhance social and public speaking skills among participants. Additionally, this summer’s offerings have been broadened to accommodate English as a New Language (ENL) students, thereby promoting inclusivity and access to quality education for even more children.
Macy Stockton, the Executive Director of Horizons NYC, emphasized the importance of summer learning, stating that research indicates students typically lose an average of two months’ worth of academic skill development over the summer, a consequence that disproportionately affects those with language-based learning differences. "By increasing our capacity to serve these students, we are addressing a critical gap in their educational journey to ensure they can thrive when they return to school," she noted.
The program is strategically targeted toward at-risk students in low-income communities, where access to diagnoses and special education services for conditions like dyslexia and ADHD has been historically limited. Dr. Sherri Helvie, Head of School at The Gateway School, expressed her enthusiasm for this partnership, stating, "We are thrilled to continue collaborating with Horizons NYC and to expand this vital program for students who are in need of specialized education. For those with attention deficits and learning differences, summer break is not just a time of academic loss; changing routines can disrupt their significantly needed structure. Keeping these students engaged with meaningful education and enjoyable activities can greatly benefit their learning continuity."
In an effort to further enhance the program’s impact, Horizons NYC at The Gateway School has fortified its collaborations with local public schools to identify students who would most benefit from these resources. Additionally, the program is in the process of developing a volunteer initiative that will enable alumni from both Horizons and Gateway schools to contribute their time and skills, enriching the educational experience of participating children.
As a leading K-8 independent day school in New York City, The Gateway School is dedicated to transforming the lives of bright students dealing with language-based learning disabilities and attention deficits. The institution has established itself as a thought leader in the realm of special education, creating an environment where every child is recognized for their unique talents and potential. Meanwhile, Horizons NYC, a regional affiliate of Horizons National, is on a mission to promote educational equity through impactful summer and out-of-school programs that support systematically under-resourced communities. By focusing on sustained commitment and comprehensive support, Horizons NYC ensures that these children are provided with the tools, skills, and confidence needed to thrive both academically and in life.
For more information about this transformative summer program and ongoing initiatives at The Gateway School and Horizons NYC, educators and families are encouraged to reach out and explore potential involvement in this essential educational resource.
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