Vastly Different Experiences: Jackson's Education
Jackson M. uses two vastly different words to describe his educational experience before and after Swift School. Before Jackson entered the halls of Swift, his academic experience was “horrendous,” but Swift School’s Orton-Gillingham-trained faculty “transformed” his schooling by giving him the tools he needed to “read, write, spell, and present in a room full of people.”
Jackson began his time at Swift School in the fourth grade after his mother, Judie, learned of the school from a family friend. Following a one-year hiatus, he returned in sixth grade and remained through the eighth grade. He began to see significant changes during his second year at Swift, stating, “I found that I could read better, comprehend what I read, and write paragraphs and essays.”
Jackson during his time at Swift School.
Self-advocacy is a phrase that is used daily at Swift. Enter classrooms, and you will hear the term mentioned throughout various lessons and activities. Despite his diagnosis of dyslexia, Jackson learned how to advocate for himself and developed leadership skills. He put those skills to the test as a Middle Division student and served as the Student Council Vice President.
Jackson with his JV baseball coaches at Dunwoody High School.
His mother remarked, “Swift was able to teach Jackson (using the Orton-Gillingham Approach) in a way that he could learn and understand. This success gave him hope, a belief in himself and his ability to succeed, and self-confidence. Swift gave me amazing support as a parent. The teachers and faculty were always available to talk or meet and always communicated in regard to Jackson’s progress month after month and year after year!”
While Jackson noted that Swift had a “fantastic” group of faculty members, his favorite story involves one of the school’s most-liked teachers, Mr. Lytle.
“I have a vivid memory of Mr. Lytle,” Jackson said. “He helped me grow and succeed by never giving up on me and always staying positive. One of my favorite memories from Swift was all the science projects we did in his class. The projects were competitive, and he made it fun for everyone, which helped us learn better.”
Swift School prepared Jackson, now a student at Dunwoody High School, for the next step in his education. He currently plays on the JV baseball team and is a member of the BETA Club and National Honor Society. He plans to attend college and wants to major in business.
His advice for current Swift School students will resonate with parents and students alike. The common theme? With effort comes success.
“Never give up,” said Jackson. “If things get difficult, keep going, and trust me, you will be successful. Swift School is one of the best schools you will ever go to, and the teachers will get you through anything you are struggling with.”