OUR DREAM IS WITHIN REACH
In 2019, we identified a pressing need for a trauma-focused school—a healing space dedicated to assisting children who have struggled in school due to the significant trauma they've endured, often stemming from the loss of primary attachment figures and the associated circumstances, especially those whose lives have been impacted by foster care. We envisioned a school that would provide quality education to children facing significant academic, behavioral, and social challenges. Our goal was to offer them an opportunity for personal growth while instilling sound values, teaching emotional self-regulation techniques, promoting a spirit of service to others, and fostering respect for the dignity of every individual they encounter.
Shade Tree Academy was officially founded on August 12, 2020, and gained approval as a private school nonprofit organization. In 2021, despite lacking a physical location, we began serving five to seven children at a time through borrowed space, with tuition covered by STO's or ESA funds.
We embarked on a visionary journey to construct a 2-story, 18,000 sq ft trauma-focused private school, designed to provide children and youth who struggled in traditional schools with an education tailored to their unique needs. Our aspiration is to concurrently serve up to 100 children, equipping them with the essential tools, resources, and support necessary for a successful return to their school of origin.
As we have successfully completed two academic school years, we eagerly welcomed students for the 23-24 academic school year. Our academic programs are carefully crafted to challenge and engage students at all levels.
Our mission is to empower children with the social and emotional skills required to excel in school, remain in school, and flourish in life. Our trauma-informed academic instructors are supported by on-site clinicians who collaborate closely with each student, using individualized approaches to help them achieve their educational goals. Our staff employs techniques that consider each child’s neurodevelopment and attachment styles. Beyond academic support, at-risk students learn to identify and manage trauma triggers, enhance resilience, and establish lifelong habits that will enable them to define and achieve their personal versions of success.
In 2021, after a year of collaboration with architectural faculty at ADM Group, as well as developers at Davcon Aviation and Mesa Hangar, we were thrilled to announce that we secured four million dollars in donations from Dell Loy Hansen and Randy Hansen, the founder of Mesa Hangar. We are confident that our goal of raising five million dollars is within reach. The architectural design for the school has been finalized, and with the assistance of David Wakefield from Davcon Aviation, we are on track to acquire the necessary building permits. Our aim is to commence construction of Shade Tree Academy in the fall of 2023. ASA Now is tasked with raising one million dollars to furnish, equip, and operate the school.
Currently, we are providing services to eight students in borrowed space, but our commitment remains unwavering—to construct our school and provide more children and youth in need with the opportunity to thrive, irrespective of the challenges they have faced.
We invite you to help us reach the finish line. Join us in raising the final $300,000 required to furnish, equip, and operate Shade Tree Academy. Your contribution can turn this dream into a reality for children and youth in need.
We warmly welcome donations of any amount and kindly request your support for our mission. Your involvement has been an integral part of our journey, and it is your commitment that continues to bestow upon our community the invaluable "Gift of Hope." Thank you!