I honestly never thought I would find a school where she fit in and could be herself. But we sure found it with Orinda Academy. 

Our daughter A., went to a fabulous elementary school in OUSD that our other daughter sailed through a few years before she did.  We thought it would be good enough for A. as well. But, as we all know, just because one child does well at a place, it doesn’t mean the other will! As it was, she was repeatedly bullied since the 2nd grade. She never had any friends, and it made her think that she was a horrible, unlikable person and student. It didn’t get better during middle school, especially after the return to school after Covid-she would never speak up in class for fear of being teased and bullied (and beaten up!)  and as a result, unsurprisingly, hated school. I was worried about her schooling ALL THE TIME.

A. felt so comfortable at OA since she sat down during the information night and started doing sign language with a current student who was there to talk about the school. We pushed her to look at other schools, but all she wanted was OA. Turns out she was right!

OA has been an incredible gift for her and for us. She’s felt included and appreciated since the beginning.

She has so many friends calling her and asking her to do things, she gets invited to birthday parties, and eats lunch with kids every day. She looks forward to school and feels safe and appreciated for being herself. 

She loves the respect her teachers show her, how they speak to her as an adult rather than a kid, and value her input and ideas. She enjoys her classes and is getting an incredible, high-quality education where she can learn in the way that best suits her. Her self-esteem is bursting, she now feels like she’s a good person, a good friend, and student, and is happy to try and learn new things. She advocates for herself, speaks up, stands up for herself, and is learning so much about herself from a place of safety. 

I can’t say enough good things about OA and the changes it has brought to my daughter.

For the first time since 2nd grade, I’m not stressed about her schooling and social life…at least until it comes time to pick a college, but I know OA will help us find the perfect place for my daughter when that comes around.  

I am asking you to consider Orinda Academy, where they continue to change the lives of kids who are desperate to find a place where they fit in and feel safe to learn and to be themselves.

~Amanda and Marc Acheson, parents of a current student.