Gow School

Gow School
Established in 1926, the Gow School situated in South Wales, New York, near Buffalo, holds the distinction of being the first institution in the United States designed to cater to the educational needs of dyslexic students. The pioneering efforts of founder Peter Gow, Jr., and Samuel T. Orton have left an indelible mark on the landscape of specialized education, serving as an inspiration for numerous other specialized schools. This spirit of innovation remains alive in the dedicated teaching team, who ardently champion our research-backed remediation program and the prospects of their students.
Within the intimate confines of small classes designed to facilitate tailored instruction, students undergo a transformative journey towards becoming adept readers and confident writers. This transformation goes hand in hand with an upsurge in self-assurance, often evident shortly after enrollment, fueled by linguistic progress and our culture of achievement.
Gow School stands as a boarding and day school preparing students in grades 6–12 for the college experience. The school's scope extends beyond dyslexia to encompass a spectrum of language-based learning disabilities, developmental coordination disorder, auditory processing disorder, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, disorder of written expression, and conditions like attention deficit disorder (ADD) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and executive function challenges. Founded in collaboration by educator Peter Gow and neurologist Dr. Samuel T. Orton, the school has a legacy that stretches back to 1926.
Programs in Gow School
Step into the remarkable learning community of Gow School. Within its walls, one will witness the embodiment of the aspirations families entrust during the admissions process, as the faculty seamlessly translate hope into tangible classroom actions. Harnessing students' strengths while providing unwavering support for their learning disabilities, the classrooms transform into arenas where students not only learn but also "bear and dare." They cultivate the ability to "bear" their disabilities while summoning the courage to "challenge" them head-on.
Integral to this journey are small class sizes, typically accommodating five or six students, and an exceptional team of educators. Through innovative teaching methods, the keys to the students' triumphs are unlocked. Built upon a rich history spanning over 95 years, the curriculum is steeped in best educational practices, influenced by contemporary research, and fortified by cutting-edge technology. This foundation, combined with the relentless efforts of the students and faculty, propels rapid progress.
Gow School's curriculum is thoughtfully sequenced, guiding students from middle school to their senior year with a clear mission for each grade. For instance, the 9th grade curriculum offers a hybrid approach, blending high school-level instruction with hands-on guidance from teachers and the Head of the Middle School, enhancing life skills training.
At Gow School, students discover a sense of belonging among peers who share their learning and thinking styles. They find themselves on a level playing field for the first time, surrounded by individuals who understand their journey. This forms the cornerstone of Gow School's unique culture of accomplishment and camaraderie.
Enter the realm of Gow School Upper School, a place dedicated to ushering 10th, 11th, and 12th-grade students into a challenging post-secondary academic realm. The transformative journey begins in the 9th grade, designed as a hybrid year. While students engage with a high school course load, they receive personalized guidance from teachers and the Head of the Middle School, instilling crucial life skills. Throughout the year, the hands-on approach gradually transitions as teachers prepare students for their 10th grade experiences.
In recent times, more than half of each graduating class has consisted of individuals who joined during the 10th, 11th, or 12th grades. The aspiration is for students to achieve success through advanced coursework, holistic growth, and an unparalleled college counseling program. The adept Gow School educators possess a wealth of experience in working with learners facing learning differences. They invest the necessary time to assist students in navigating their college preparatory journey. Across various departments, students access advanced courses, encompassing Reconstructive Language, English, History, and Science, alongside elective opportunities in Art and Applied Technology.
Gow School simplifies the college application process, guided by a team of skilled college counselors. This guidance extends to the common application, standardized testing, essays, and letters of recommendation, culminating in a remarkable 100% college acceptance rate annually. The students gain admission to institutions that not only accommodate their learning disabilities but also provide an environment where they can thrive.
Implement yourself into the realm of Fine Arts at Gow School, where diverse skill sets find expression. Unlike programs that relegate art to the sidelines to accommodate language remediation, Gow School integrates art as an integral part of its curriculum. For some, the arts amplify existing talents; for others, they unearth hidden potentials. In a unique blend, all students can hone skills and give voice to their creative spirits. A striking testament to this, a noteworthy portion of graduates—up to a third in certain years—opt for art majors, arts colleges, and artistic careers. Visual art mirrors academic rigor, demanding discipline, focus, and problem-solving prowess. Yet, it stands apart as a predominantly non-verbal realm, where many dyslexics discover a realm where they flourish.
Gow School presents an array of artistic domains including painting, drawing, 3D art (sculpture), pottery, art history, computer graphics, and photography within the Applied Technology Department. The art history curriculum, often steeped in reading and writing, is adapted to emphasize classroom discussions, catering to diverse learning styles. Courses vary in complexity, spanning basic, intermediate, and advanced levels. Upper-level students often craft college entrance portfolios, benefiting from dedicated studio spaces.
Lastly, a glimpse into Technology at Gow School reveals its dynamic and progressive nature, focused on students' benefit rather than fleeting trends. Seamlessly woven into the curriculum and campus, technology facilitates unified interactions between educators and learners. Assistive Technology forms a cornerstone, with each student receiving a laptop equipped with the requisite assistive software and corresponding guidance. Dragon NaturallySpeaking voice recognition software, Kurzweil text-to-speech technology, and the Inspiration visual mapping application are frequently utilized tools. These resources play a vital role in aiding activities such as reading, enhancing writing skills, and various academic disciplines. These programs effectively eliminate language-based barriers to learning, fostering a supportive environment.

Accommodation in Gow School
Although Gow School does not provide accommodations for international students, fear not, as we unveil a diverse selection of alluring lodging choices tailored to your convenience and personal tastes.
Homestay provides one of the most immersing ways to explore American culture. This option allows you to live with a local host family, giving you a true experience of the culture while also providing you with a supporting atmosphere. Participate in regular conversations, family activities, and homemade dinners. Homestays generally cost $1,000 USD to $1,500 USD per month and include lodging and meals in a loving family atmosphere.
For those seeking a more independent living experience, renting an apartment or condo is a fantastic choice. This option grants you the freedom to curate your living space, set your own routine, and explore the local neighborhood. Apartments and condos in South Wales, New York, vary in price depending on size and location, with monthly rents ranging from $800 USD to $1,500 USD on average.
Another appealing option is sharing an apartment or room with fellow students. Not only does this foster camaraderie and companionship, but it also eases the financial burden by splitting costs. Collaborating with classmates to secure a shared rental can lead to monthly expenses ranging from $500 USD to $800 USD per person, making it an economical and social choice.
Future Prospects after study in Gow School
Beyond the walls of Gow School, your future holds a realm of boundless opportunities. Upon graduating from a post-secondary institution, enriched by the college preparation instilled during your time at Gow School, you open the door to a spectrum of promising pathways. The option of obtaining a post-graduation work permit, like the esteemed OPT or CPT programs, stands before you, paving the way to practical experience and further academic exploration.
As you traverse through your academic endeavors, the prospect of permanent residency unfurls. The foundation laid at Gow School equips you with the resilience and skills to navigate this process, should you choose to embrace the richness of life as a permanent resident. The expertise honed here not only empowers academic growth but also nurtures the ability to adapt and thrive in new settings.
Furthermore, the allure of a nation steeped in prosperity and opportunity beckons. The United States' dynamic culture and multifaceted prospects create an inviting landscape for individuals seeking to shape their destinies. Should you wish to embrace this land as your own, the avenue to American citizenship stands open, a genuine possibility forged by your determination, perseverance, and the nurturing environment of Gow School.
Your time at Gow has sown the seeds of potential, and as you step forward into the world, remember that your journey is enriched by the indelible marks of resilience, knowledge, and the spirit of Gow School. Your future is a canvas awaiting your unique brushstrokes, painted with the hues of opportunity and shaped by the transformative education you have received.

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