On August 7, 2023, The Canopy School welcomed 107 students on the first day of school for its second academic year. Led by the belief that every child can be a success story, the nonprofit and accredited educational solution creates an environment where children with an array of learning differences are empowered through an individualized approach to education in a supportive, innovative and transformative environment.

For Emilye Welch, mother to second grader, Allie Brooke, The Canopy School seemed too good to be true. After attending an informational meeting, Emilye thought the school sounded amazing, but was still skeptical if it could truly meet all the needs of her eight-year-old daughter. Diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Allie Brooke has very little verbal language and uses a device to help her communicate. She decided not to enroll her daughter, believing that The Canopy School would have far too many hiccups in its first year of operation.

However, about a month after school began, Emilye and her husband toured The Canopy School. Exceedingly moved by what they had seen, they agreed to enroll their daughter immediately. "It was just the most amazing thing," Emilye says, reflecting on this decision. "The best thing we could have ever done for her."

The Canopy School has provided Allie Brooke with individualized instruction, countless supportive resources, and most importantly, a newfound confidence and independence. Not only is she excited to go to school each day, but she has excelled academically, formed strong relationships with her classmates and teachers, and is beginning to be more verbal in her communication. "Her confidence has improved tremendously," says Emilye. "She's way more independent now than she's ever been."

Laura Beth Johnston, mother of Fraiser, believes The Canopy School fulfills exactly what her son needs. Fraiser is a sixth grade student diagnosed with ASD. He spent several years in a traditional public school setting, and was often overwhelmed by the large class sizes, lack of individualized instruction, and felt like he did not fit in. Laura Beth wanted her son to attend a school with smaller class sizes that assisted in providing resources and support tailored to meet his educational needs. She also looked for a school that her son could participate in traditional school activities like sports, dances, and extracurriculars. Fraiser is fulfilling his potential and finding success at The Canopy School. "He has so much more confidence this year," Laura Beth says appreciatively. "He is so much happier at school. He feels like he's doing a great job, and he is doing a great job."

Amber Johnson feels similarly to Laura Beth and Emilye. Her son, Wyatt, a sixth grader diagnosed with ASD, has spent a large part of his life labeled as a "bad kid." Wyatt struggled with thriving in the classroom and in social situations. This led to painful frustration for Amber, who knew her child was bright and wonderful. At previous schools, she felt that she constantly fought with teachers and administration to acknowledge her son's value and potential.

"Canopy has just changed our lives," Amber said emotionally. "This is exactly where Wyatt needs to be. He has grown so much." For the first time in his life, he is excited to go to school each day. Wyatt has confidence in his academic ability, knows his teachers care for him, and has grown socially by creating new friendships. "He loves his school," Amber says. "I'm singing The Canopy School's praises all over."

The Canopy School is excited to see what the future holds as it heads into its third year. It has already enriched the lives of many students and their families. To learn more about enrollment for the 2024-2025 academic year, student support services, or to schedule a tour, visit thecanopyschool.org or call 769-777-1500. Now enrolling K-12.

Thank you to The Canopy School for your partnership with Stroll magazine! We appreciate you and love how you are impacting our community and serving families in our area.