Last week, The Gateway School hosted a powerful Reimagine Together panel that truly embodied the founding spirit of their institution. The event brought together families, educators, and professionals for a vital conversation on how connection, advocacy, and collaboration are the keys to transforming a child’s educational experience.
A Legacy of Advocacy
As highlighted in the opening remarks by Dr. Christy Brockhausen, Assistant Head of School and Director of the Lower School, The Gateway School’s very existence is a testament to extraordinary parental advocacy.
Gateway was founded in 1965 by Claire Flom, a determined mother who set out to create a school for her son when no suitable option existed. This act of determination established Gateway as one of the first schools of its kind—a pioneer and leader in the field of special education.
From the beginning, the mission has been clear:
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To teach bright children who have trouble learning how to learn.
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To educate families and the professional community about the nature of learning disabilities.
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To develop and share effective instructional approaches and programs for students with special needs.
For over five decades, Gateway has remained steadfast in this commitment, connecting families with the right educational and developmental support to ensure every child has the chance to thrive.
The Power of Parental Action
The recent panel was a vivid reflection of this same spirit of dedication and innovation.
We were deeply inspired by the stories of Dani Amirian and Allison Hirsch, two parents who recognized a critical gap in support for families navigating complex educational and developmental systems. They channeled their personal journeys into a mission to guide others.
Through their work, they connect families with the right professionals, therapists, programs, and top-tier specialists who provide personalized, evidence-based support for each child’s unique developmental needs. Hearing their journeys was a powerful reminder of the extraordinary power of parents to advocate, innovate, and transform challenges into meaningful change.