Gateway Academy is an extraordinary beacon of hope and excellence in education for twice exceptional students. As a parent deeply invested in my child's academic and emotional growth, I cannot praise Gateway Academy enough for their unwavering commitment to nurturing every facet of their students' development. From the moment we enrolled, it was clear that Gateway Academy isn't just a school--it's a sanctuary where learning flourishes. Their dedication to providing rigorous academics tailored to the unique strengths and challenges of twice exceptional students is unparalleled. They strike a perfect balance between offering enriching coursework that challenges my child intellectually and providing the necessary support to ensure their success. What truly sets Gateway Academy apart is their holistic approach. They understand that true education extends beyond textbooks and exams. They prioritize the social and emotional well-being of their students, creating a nurturing environment where every child feels valued and understood. This focus on emotional intelligence and social skills not only enhances academic performance but also prepares students for life beyond the classroom. Gateway Academy embodies the essence of what education should be--a place where students are not just taught, but inspired to grow, explore, and excel. In a world where true educational institutions like Gateway Academy are rare, their dedication to fostering intellectual curiosity and emotional resilience is a beacon of hope for the future. I wholeheartedly recommend Gateway Academy to any parent seeking a school that values true education, where every student is seen as a unique individual with limitless potential. Thank you, Gateway Academy, for setting the standard in education and for shaping the leaders of tomorrow with care, compassion, and unwavering dedication. read more

Gateway Academy is the best thing to happen to my son in a long time. His disability caused him to be humiliated by teachers in public schools, being told that he was acting like a baby or that he needed to sit still and pay attention, which is impossible for a kid with Asperger's. You can add as many details you want to an I.E.P, but it doesn't mean a public school can educate your child the way they need to be educated. Gateway gets it! My child went from C's and D's in his public high school, to A's at Gateway and even taking a college course in his second semester at the school. They allowed him to learn the way he needed to learn and encourage him to express himself the best way he can. For the first time in over 6 year, I feel like he is actually learning and feeling good about himself in terms of his education and his success. Now that he is at Gateway, he is excited to go to school. He is learning practical skills he will need in order to navigate life as a person with Asperger's. He is learning to play guitar at the school too; I never imagined that he could be so excited about learning new things! Now he and I discuss music style and I share with him songs that I have enjoyed through the years (yes, actually have conversations with a teenager). Lastly, Mr. Matt, the Director of Education, is a kind and caring person. From the moment he gave us a tour of the school, he connected with our son and made him feel very welcome. HE has continued to surprise us with his gentle nature with the children and the way that he reassures us when we have concerns. I cannot express how neat of a guy he is. Lastly, no school is perfect, but Gateway understands students with Asperger's and makes every attempt to connect with them in a ways that are meaningful, effective and compassionate. read more

Robin and Gateway Staff, I can't find the words to express how grateful that I am for all that you guys have done for Annabelle this semester. The wonderful Rock Concert/Graduation this morning was delightful frosting on an amazing cake. In my wildest dreams did I imagine that I would see Annabelle perform on a stage in front of a large audience as she did today. I know it took all the courage that she could muster and she is so pleased with herself and we are proud of her. For that, I have each of you to thank!A short 5 months ago, I brought to you a broken child that I was not able to help alone. She had withdrawn into herself, found it difficult to socialize with nearly everyone, sad, lonely and truly hated going to school. Although, I know the road this semester has not been smooth and there is still a long way to go for this child to reach her full potential, the improvements that I see are monumental. I now see an albeit stubborn, but a happy child that once again looks for opportunities to socialize, join willingly in family dinners, game nights, willingly attend events(such as prom) and even proclaims that she likes her school.I know that none of these things would be reality if not for the wonderful, skilled, caring staff at Gateway Academy.  As I sit here listening to the laughter and excitement wafting down the stairs as she shares her exciting day with her mother, I am moved to tears and feel such a debt of gratitude to all of you.As we move into this next school year, understanding that there are still many social and academic hurdles to jump, I pledge to you to support you in anyway that I can. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for providing this life changing opportunity for Annabelle. Warmest Regards, Jan read more

This school could be amazing and that's what makes writing this review so disappointing. The teachers here are dedicated, patient, and genuinely care about the students. They're the only reason we have stayed as long as we have. Unfortunately, everything outside the classroom especially the administration is a different story. The biggest issue is the leadership. The administration is disorganized, dismissive of parent concerns, and shockingly poor at communication. Emails and calls often go unanswered for days (if at all), and any feedback is either ignored or met with defensiveness. There's zero transparency around important decisions that directly affect students, and trying to get clarity on anything feels like pulling teeth. Even more frustrating is the attitude from the top. The owner presents as someone who "knows best," but in reality, seems far removed from the day-to-day realities of the school and out of touch with what our kids actually need. Parent input is not welcomed in fact, it's often treated as a nuisance and it will be taken out on your child. It's incredibly discouraging, especially in a school meant to support neurodivergent children who thrive on consistency and clear communication. The school has potential, but it's being held back by an administration that doesn't seem willing to listen, adapt, or even engage with the community it claims to serve. We expected more from a private school especially one with such a specialized focus. We are currently looking into other options where our child will not only supported, but also respected. Until this school addresses the serious leadership and communication issues at the top, I can't in good conscience recommend it. read more

Our family has been associated with Gateway Academy, since it was in the Scottsdale Airpark, and our experience has only been positive. It's sad that this wonderfully unique program could be potentially judged based on a handful of disgruntled parents reviews. Please know that the majority of the parents and students at Gateway Academy, who are willing to be open and receptive to guidance and change, value the college prep education; the well trained faculty; the creative therapists; and the sensitive and knowledgeable administrators. Gateway is growing exponentially, and moving to a new incredible facility in June (previous Tesseract School location on E. Shea Blvd). A school does not continue to thrive and grow, if they are not doing something right! My recommendation would be to not judge this amazing program on these reviews, but come visit and judge for yourself! An example of one of our experiences at Gateway, which I feel needs to be shared is the following: I did not want my son taken out of Drama Club and placed in the Art Club, and I let my opinion be known to Robin. She took the time to listen to me, and explained that Art Club might be a more appropriate club and to give it the semester before we pulled him. He tried the Art Club, and, at the end of the year, his artwork was awarded a National Art Recognition and hung in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Museum in Washington, DC. If I hadn't trusted Robin's insight, this incredible opportunity would never have occurred. At this juncture, my son is researching colleges, and this, too, would have never occurred without the guidance and support of everyone at Gateway Academy! read more

Our daughter struggled in the public school setting for 7years. She hated school because she always felt that she did not fit in and the students would always pick on her. After finally getting our diagnosed with Autism, her doctors recommended Gateway academy to us. So we scheduled a tour and had her shadow the students for one day. By the end of the day we sat down with the administrators and our daughter, and our daughter was so happy that she was in tears, when she said she "absolutely needs this school, for the first I feel like I'm normal and fit in" . Now she has been enrolled for about a year. She now loves school, we don't have to fight to get her up and ready for school. She now has a solid core of friends that support each other and teachers that do the same. She is emotionally in a better place. With the support of her friends, faculty and staff She is learning how to advocate for self. Even her psychiatrist has recently complemented on how eloquently she is expressing her emotions and how she is feeling. I can an will be honest, Gateway Academy is not a miracle school, but it is a strong and supportive community. Gateway is a school that cares about the issues and challenges a family faces raising a child with Autism. It is a school were parents and kids/ students can relate and share experiences in a safe environment. It is a school that is centered around community. As my daughter so eloquently said after her first day; "It is the school were we belong!" read more

As a parent of a high-functioning autistic child, I had high hopes for Gateway Academy to provide a supportive and inclusive learning environment for my son. However, my experience was disappointing. While the school has the potential to impact the lives of many children positively, I found that the focus on medicating the students and the high staff turnover were significant concerns. I observed that the school's director, Robin, seemed more focused on medication and frequently shared her own experiences with medicating her child. It's important to recognize that neurodivergent children have diverse abilities, and not all of them require medication to thrive. A more holistic and individualized approach should be considered for each student. Additionally, the high turnover in staff during the year my son attended was concerning. Consistency and stability in the teaching and support staff are crucial for the well-being and progress of the students, especially those with special needs. In my opinion, Gateway Academy would greatly benefit from a reconsideration of its leadership approach. Allowing others to take more active roles in running the school could bring about positive changes and ensure that the students receive the best possible support and education. I hope that my feedback is taken into consideration for the betterment of the school and the students it serves. read more

We are still pinching ourselves on a day-to-day basis that we found Gateway for our son. After attempting multiple public schools, then Montessori schools, to try to find the educational and social fit for our twice-exceptional (2E) son with ASD, and being gas-lit by every single one of them, we found Gateway through an educational advocate. Our son started his sophomore year at Gateway, and is now a senior. Gateway truly changed the trajectory of our lives as a family, as we watched our son go from a depressed, anxious, and cynical kiddo to a secure and happy one who looked forward to going to school daily and even after school holiday breaks! This is something that we never thought we'd see. ALL of the Gateway teachers, as well as Robin Sweet, deserve the highest praise for creating and protecting a SAFE environment for our kiddos who are all unique, who all have their own challenges, and who need tailored support emotionally and academically. My son went from saying he wanted to drop out of school to considering and then planning for college after graduation. I really can't say enough good things about Gateway, and have encouraged other parents with kiddos on the spectrum to consider Gateway for their children. We are thrilled beyond belief and grateful every day that Gateway is there for our son and his peers! read more

Gateway has been a great school for our child. The teachers are kind and helpful and have been very open with communication. For our family staff has been at the central focus because kids come and go for various reasons at all the schools we have encountered. Also staff being able to approach things from various angles is not always a given even at specialized schools. I think this group of teachers have got it right. In addition, the school curriculum is more on par for my child's needs. We have gone to other schools both ASD focused and public and I feel that this is in between both. We are able to communicate with staff if there are questions regarding assignments or concerns. My child has felt comfortable with staff and overall we feel that the school has been a good fit. We appreciate the school offering opportunities for clubs, student council, and equine therapy and peer relationships. They have a wonderful community, their PTA called the GPO, parents who try to create more opportunities for the students to socialize. Students get to enjoy activities put on by them throughout the year. Our child is currently in middle school and this is their second year attending. For the second year the staff have been just as welcoming as they were last year and we continue to see a bright future for our child. read more

Gateway Academy has been a life changing experience not just for my Autistic son but for our entire Family. Prior to coming to Gateway my son was attending a high school in the PV district and headed down the wrong path. He was failing every single class, his only friends always getting in trouble, and he was generally a very unhappy kid. This all changed after his first few weeks at Gateway Academy. On the day of his tour at Gateway he was apprehensive at first , but left so excited because as he said it's a school with kids JUST LIKE ME - I can be ME here. In the 2.5 years that my son has been at Gateway he has gone from Failing every single course to a 4.0 GPA, he has real friends, he admires and respects his teachers and he actually looks forward to going to school. It has been life changing and I have had nothing but positive experiences at Gateway. Thank you Mrs. Robin and all your staff for creating an environment where our kids can learn and be themselves and not try to mask who they really are. The supper services and educational have just been outstanding. I recommend Gateway Academy for any child on the spectrum experiencing problems and challenges or not - as there is nowhere else you will find the level of supper and caring the staff here provide our children. read more

Gateway Academy is a toxic, harmful place that no child should ever have to endure. They chewed my kid up and spit him out without an ounce of compassion, care, or respect. What should have been a safe and supportive school turned into a nightmare where my child was dismissed, devalued, and made to feel like garbage. The director/owner is at the center of it all. She is not just unkind--she is downright cruel. Cold, manipulative, arrogant, and heartless, she thrives on control and intimidation. She has zero genuine concern for children or their families, and it is shocking and disturbing that someone like this is allowed to run a school. Her hypocrisy is staggering: they sell an image of compassion, but the reality is neglect, indifference, and cruelty. My child came home from this place broken and defeated--his spirit crushed by the very people who should have lifted him up. No parent should ever have to watch their child suffer at the hands of people pretending to "help." Parents, please--don't be fooled by their glossy promises. Behind the scenes, this is a toxic, damaging environment that destroys trust and confidence. If you love your child, run in the opposite direction. This isn't just a bad school--it's a dangerous one. read more

I am so thankful for this school! The director, Robin has always had an open door policy to myself and my son. My son has always been allowed to express his fears, concerns, and stuggles with Robin. She has given him wonderful advice and real life tools to help him verbally express and advocate for himself both in school and outside of school situations. She has a wonderful program that makes this special population feel successful, calm, happy and uninhibited. The teachers have such a challenge as each student is so individual in the way that they learn and their personailites, but somehow these special teachers seem to tap in to what works for each individual. They do this with much love, respect and hardwork. The moment you walk through the doors of Gateway, you feel acceptance and understanding. My son continues to grow and excel everyday. I feel Robin and her school is preparing my son for a bright future, something I wasn't always so sure about. Since attending Gateway, my son loves to go to school! Never the case in the public school system. I spend 4 hours a day transporting my son to and from Gateway. It is worth it! To see my smiling sons face every day before and after school....totally worth it!!!! read more

Gateway Academy was a live saving move for our daughter and our family. Our daughter was misunderstood in her public school. They did not have the teachers, time or resources to help her specials needs. They were so overwhelmed dealing with the 30+ kids in each class. Our daughter was being bullied every day in every class and having mental breakdowns, anxiety and depression. Since we found Gateway Academy all of that has changed. Gateway Academy supports our daughter and her Autistic needs. Each staff member and teacher listens and understands what she is going through. They are patient, kind and supportive. They have the resources to support her and think outside the box to make sure her needs are met. For example their onsite therapist though of putting Velcro under her desk to stop her from tearing up papers, classroom items and her clothes. The school allows her to take breaks when she is getting overwhelmed and they even have two wonderful therapy dogs on site that the kids can visit anytime they need to. I could not have dreamed up a better school to help my daughter in order for her to get a great education while supporting her Autism. Every level 1 autistic child needs to come here! read more

I looked at many private schools for my son to attend after many years of frustration with the public school system. The minute I walked into Gateway Academy-I experienced the positive energy. My son and I felt welcomed by the entire staff. We were introduced to students who were happy and engaged with their teachers and each other. One of the students told us that what he enjoyed most about Gateway Academy, was that, "Everyone cared about and respected one another." Finally, my son enjoys going to school that has a safe, nurturing, and challenging environment. The classes are small and he receives individualized attention. The master teachers are highly skilled with an ability to meet individual needs in order for students to experience success. The Administration and their staff are of a very high caliber. Personally they are honest and ethical. They are there because they care about kids and families. I am so grateful to have my son in such an outstanding school! It has made a wonderful difference in our lives. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this school to parents who want the best for their children. read more

Gateway has been amazing to my child! My child has been there from 5th grade (when it was available) and now beginning high school. The school TRULY understands the needs of high functioning autism learning and only allows the must educated and compassionate staff to be a part of the team. They are understanding of difficult behavior patterns of spectrum children and are patient in loving them through it correctly. That being said, if a child is too behaviorally disruptive to other students needs, they kindly and professionally relocate them to a school that will better suit their needs. The classes are small and intimate and allow time for slower learning, which actually means, faster grasping and application for them. I love Gateway and am so grateful to have stumbled upon them. Apply for your ESA today and come join Gateway!!! If you don't know what ESA is, it is a statewide scholarship for our kiddos to attend the school choice that best fits their needs. Come to Gateway, and watch your child THRIVE not just survive. read more

Gateway is an amazing place. I am truly grateful. Each and every person invests all of their time and energy to each patient. The entire school is designed for our children. One very specific example of the school's great expertise: The morning meeting, which is designed so that autistic children have a heads-up on their day and week. It also has been helping my son's sense of time and his executive function is improving. Another example of the dedication of staff: my son could not have the wonderful electric guitar lessons (and these he sees as totally cool) due to difficulty getting to his ride, the local Y, as I work. Robin herself is helping us with this. HOLY MOLY! I did not even expect this. I thought we were going to have to stop, and that would have been fine. It is really above and beyond, which is really what Gateway is about. My son is integrating, is on a school social networking group, and was even invited to a pool party. And he is not different here. He is normal. So grateful. read more

My son, high school junior, has been at Gateway Academy since middle school. This has been the best fit we have found in any Arizona school for him and we have tried a handful! I am pleased that he is involved in National Honor Society and seems to be reading the same books in English every year that his non-neurodiverse siblings read in public school honors English. We do some things on our own; extra drawing classes and a medical club, so our son can pursue his interests alongside typical high school students. This seems to compliment his Gateway studies and does not take away from anything. We are excited that there are some AP classes he can try next year and will be taking a class at PV community college in the spring! Sometimes my son feels self conscious about being on the spectrum, and he was tickled to realize that he would attend college classes in high school, something that his older siblings who are now in college never did! read more

Prior to attending Gateway, our son was being bullied and teased at the public school. The class sizes were large and overwhelming. He was so continuously anxious that he fell behind in academics. It had also taken quite the emotional toll. It was heartbreaking to watch him struggle and we knew we had to find an alternative. A friend recommended Gateway because of her son's positive experience. On his very first day at Gateway, he said, "thank you so much for finding this school. I love it here." He's now in his fourth year here and looks forward to school everyday. The staff, educators and therapists here are so amazing and we truly know they have all the students best interest at heart. They have a unique, ingenious approach to educating the students while also working on life skills. Our son is back to his outgoing, happy self and his confidence has been restored because he has found a school where truly belongs. read more

A totally different experience for the whole family ! Having finally switched our son to Gateway, after what can only be described as a horrendous Public School experience . We are impressed and thankful to all the Faculty and the overall life altering impact it is having on our son and us , having him in the correct environment. ! From Day 1 our son is walking taller and very proud of himself , he can't tell us his favorite teacher since they are all brilliant . He has made friends which is huge . He is THRIVING ! This mom isn't worried anymore opening an email from " School " , since now it's nearly always a positive email or informational . After four weeks of our son attending Gateway , he was named " Student of the Week ". Gateway embraces each child's exceptionality and helps them reach for the stars .... OUTSTANDING ! I truly wish our other son could have this School experience . read more