Page 71 - South Mississippi Living - September, 2024

Resilience and Hope: Celebrating Five Years of Lighthouse Academy for Dyslexia’s Impactful Journey
Nestled in the heart of Ocean Springs, Mississippi, the Lighthouse Academy for Dyslexia stands as a beacon of hope for children with dyslexic learning profiles. Established by dedicated dyslexia therapists, this unique institution provides an elementary education tailored to the needs of students who learn differently.
The specialized curriculum at Lighthouse Academy is a testament to the power of understanding and innovation. Recognizing that traditional teaching methods often fall short for dyslexic students, the academy employs evidence-based techniques that cater to their cognitive profiles. This includes multisensory instruction, individualized learning plans, and
a patient, nurturing approach that builds confidence and competence.
The academy’s therapists are not just educators but also advocates and mentors. Their deep understanding of
dyslexia allows them to identify each student’s strengths and challenges, crafting personalized strategies that transform potential into achievement. This supportive environment empowers students to embrace their unique abilities, fostering a love of learning that extends beyond the classroom.
As Lighthouse Academy celebrates its 5th anniversary, its founders reflect on the humble beginnings of the school
and its development. During a global pandemic and school closures, amidst uncertainty, with no funding and no ability to host fundraising events, no facility, and no furniture, against all odds, the miracle of Lighthouse Academy for Dyslexia was forged on August 4, 2020, by four determined dyslexia therapists who refused to accept the status quo.
In nine short months, a board of directors was identified, and through the generosity of Lauren and Bill Williams, an LLC and 501c3 IRS documents were paid for and filed. A grant from the City of Ocean Springs allowed the school
to operate rent-free for its first year. Hilltree marketing created a free website, marketing campaign, 30-second PSA commercial, and Google registry for the school. Multiple local businesses donated furniture, fixtures, and equipment to furnish three classrooms and four office spaces. Meridith and Gregg Descher purchased iPads for each of the academy’s students. Despite funding uncertainties, eight named storms in the Gulf of Mexico, and periodic shutdowns, Lighthouse Academy lit its beacon and opened its doors.
Director of Finance and Math Sorrel Duncan reflected, “The obstacles to opening Lighthouse were so high. We struggled with fear and operating out of a mindset of scarcity. We might not have pressed on without our strong, experienced founding board members who came alongside us as we faced our inadequacies.”
As a young mother and wife of a pastor, Lauren Houston, Principal of Lighthouse Academy, recalled a pivotal conversation with her husband. “In the spring of 2020, schools were shut down, so Blake and I would take walks every morning around our neighborhood. I remember asking, “What will we do if I don’t get a paycheck?’ What if this doesn’t work? He looked at me with all the confidence and faith and said, ‘We will figure it out. It will be okay. The next day, we got a phone call about a donation to furnish the school completely. I knew at that moment that God was going to open Lighthouse Academy with me or without me. This was His work. That day, I gave myself to this team of women and didn’t look back.” explained Lauren Houston, Principal.
Traci Barrientos, Executive Director of Lighthouse Academy for Dyslexia, added, “The journey to create Lighthouse Academy was filled with uncertainty and challenges, but it was driven by a profound belief in the potential of our students. Every obstacle we faced only strengthened our resolve to build a place where children with dyslexia could thrive. Today, as we celebrate our 5th anniversary, I am in awe of how far we’ve come and deeply grateful for the community that rallied behind us. This academy is a testament to the power of hope, resilience, and the unwavering belief that every child deserves the chance to shine.”
As Lighthouse Academy for Dyslexia celebrates its 5th anniversary, it stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication of its founders, the resilience of its students, and the generosity of a community that believes in the power of education tailored to the needs of their dyslexic students. With every success story and every milestone, the academy continues to light the way for children, proving that with faith, determination, and community support, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome. Lighthouse Academy is not just a school; it’s a beacon of hope, illuminating the path to a brighter future for students with dyslexia.
2436 W. Commerce St., Ocean Springs 228.447.4941 www.lighthousedyslexia.org
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