“This school changed my life” has been echoed for 50+ years by Jemicy’s students, who have dyslexia or related language-based learning differences. Whether arriving in first grade, like recent graduate Sara, or in middle school, like Kieran, being taught the way they learn best is a proven “game-changer” for both the students and their families.
Sara remembers being anxious at preschool and singled out for not knowing letters or numbers. Upon enrollment at Jemicy, the stress ebbed away as she wrote the alphabet in shaving cream and played reading “games” with her favorite language skills teacher. Sara thrived in the rich multisensory and experiential program, where she discovered a passion for science through exploration of the woods and streams on campus.
When it came time for high school, Sara explains, “It was a ‘no-brainer’ to continue at Jemicy, where I was comfortable asking for help, teachers understood me, and I received the support and flexibility to excel academically while still pursuing my passions. You truly can do anything and everything here,” says the gifted athlete in three varsity sports. Along with over 95% of her classmates, she was accepted into multiple colleges and universities. This fall Sara is excited to take the confidence and skills she learned at Jemicy to a “bigger stage” at University of Rochester, where she will major in biology/pre-med and play lacrosse.
Kieran, an avid athlete, joined Jemicy in 6th grade and recalls feeling frustrated at his former school and being pulled out for “special help.” Kieran shares, “The difference here is that the teachers take the time to explain things. I discovered I am good at math because my teacher shows me instead of tells me and makes learning fun.” Kieran likes doing his homework in advisory, where help is available if needed, leaving time in the evenings to unwind and pursue his many other interests.
Both Sara and Kieran remember what it was like to be that little kid who felt different – that’s why they love reading to the younger students. They understand that having a learning difference is challenging but also comes with unique strengths. We can’t wait to see how these bright, creative, young leaders help to change the lives of future generations.
This article is part of the 2024-2025 Guide to Baltimore Independent Schools.
