Odyssey School

A few things about Odyssey School in Austin TX. Before attending Odyssey my son suffered from a lack of confidence in himself, but more importantly in the institutions (public school s) he was attending. He just wanted not to be seen and left-alone. He is currently a second year student and best known for being a spirited supporter of his school. In under a year he managed find himself and reclaim his self-esteem. The atmosphere supports intimate class sizes and one-on-one mentorship. These conditions coupled with faculty that are enthusiastic about their positions, have helped to renew my sons fanaticism for learning and growing-up in public. Odyssey is a firm supporter of its community and has an excellent Service Learning Program. The students are taught to go out to make a difference, by giving back to those that would accept a helping hand. My son is proud of who he is today and I feel we owe that to the wonderful faculty at Odyssey.
--Submitted by a parent

Odyssey School is a much needed alternative in the Austin area for students who have struggled in the traditional school environment and their parents who are frustrated with getting the understanding and response that they need to help their child feel comfortable and be successful at school. At my first meeting with Odyssey, I immediately felt understood as opposed to the usual uphill battle of trying desperately to explain (and even understand mysefl) what makes my unique child tick and stuggling to design my own accomodations to help her be successful in school. The difference in my daughter from last year in traditional school--where she refused to go to school for weeks on end and had many sleepless night full of anxiety--to this year at Odyssey school is beyond remarkable. She is so happy, is cheerful to go to school, and when I pick her up she always has a big smile on her face. She talks about how school is so much fun and that the teachers teach her in a way she can understand. She also says they don't move on until she understands and as a result she never feels like she is left behind. She is celebrated for her unique strengths and accepted for weaknesses.
--Submitted by a parent

Our son has attended the Odyssey school for 6 years. The staff has bent over backwards to find ways to accommodate his challenges. He feels capable and confident and sees himself as a successful student. We feel so fortunate to have a school of this caliber in the Austin area. The facilities may not be state of the art, but the teaching that takes place within those walls is stellar. Odyssey's commitment to serving in the community on a monthly basis has fostered a heart for others in my son. Because of his experiences in the Service Learning Program he has a desire to make positive contributions to his world and give back to his community. That lesson alone is priceless in my book.
--Submitted by a parent

This school has been very good for my son, who didnt fit the "mold" of the local AISD middle school. Wish it were nicer looking and more structured, sometimes feels "too easy" for some of the kids. Effective though in using different techniques to teach. Very friendly teachers. This is an open and accepting environment for student with learning differences and students with learning disabilities, which is nice but not sure how that contributes to the overall learning environment. Overall a positive experience as a parent and for a kid who has come to dislike school.
--Submitted by a parent

After years of frustration we have finally found the answer for our spectrum child. This school is not big on "labels" but definitely understands learning differences and how to reach and teach in order for these kids to be successful in life. From the highly educated and trained teachers to the supportive and involved administration, this school is amazing. Not fancy, not super chic, but very effective. We are actually moving to Austin in order for our son to attend this incredible school.
--Submitted by a parent

The school is adequate for some kids but lacks in many essentials. Most importantly this school lacks any real management within it. This school either works or it doesn't, and doesn't seem to know who it would work for. They do have some great teachers but do not know what to do with the poor teachers.
--Submitted by a parent

My grandson has attended Odessey School for the past two years. Compared to his previous school, Odessey shines! It has been an excellent match. My grandson now looks forward to school and has progressed tremendously. Academics are truly individualized and strong. The Art and Athletics programs are outstanding.

I've had three children attend this school over the past 6 years with one still there. Each had different needs but all benefited. I'm thrilled with the progress they made and I'm thankful for the support of the other parents that understand the emotional impact of raising children with learning disabilities.
--Submitted by a parent

I am a parent and my child has come so far from where he was but has more to go. I feel there is to much homework and the work is not set for individuals it is set for their grade they are in instead of where they are mentally.
--Submitted by a parent

This school is just a mess. Poor teachers, unstable curriculum, and administration with no direction. This is a school for kids with ADHD, yet hardly of the teachers are trained in this field. It's a shame!
--Submitted by a parent