Gateway Academy Photo #2 - Experiential Learning!

Gateway Academy

Established in 2005, Gateway Academy is the only not for profit private day school in the State of Arizona specializing in a pure population of Twice Exceptional students with High Functioning Autism.
Our unique evironment helps our students feel safe, heard, and supported.
Differentiating the curriculum is implemented for all of our students, and AP and Honors classes are offered for students, who want academic rigor.
Our intent is to deliver the highest level of education and care according to their individual needs in a safe, positive, and structured environment, where every student can achieve the best possible outcome, in order to offer a complete integration of education, socialization, and therapy. Check us out online: www.gatewayacademy.us

Quick Facts (2025)

Top Rankings

Gateway Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Arizona for:

School Overview

Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 6-12
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Any difference requiring differentiated education.
Year Founded
2005
Colors
Navy Blue, Gold
School Calendar
Last Day of School
Thu. May 28, 2026
Campus Size
8

Student Body

Total Students
119 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
20%
State avg.: 38%
Students by Grade
Gateway Academy Student By Grade

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers
21 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
6:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
100%
Average Class Size
12 students
Number of AP Courses
3 courses
Advanced Courses
AP English Literature
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Sensory Sensitive

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
Tuition includes: PEERS Relationship; Family & Consumer Science; Counseling; Equine Therapy; Digital & Instrumental Music; Clubs; After School Rock Band.
% on Financial Aid
99%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$35,000
Acceptance Rate
70%
National avg.: 81%
College Acceptance Rate
100%
Admissions Director
O. Robin Sweet
Admissions Associate
O. Robin Sweet
Application URL

Sports

Extracurriculars

Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
10 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
After School Rock BandAlice Coopers - Solid Rock Music Club
Art ClubBattlebots Team
Competitive Gaming ClubEngineering & Inventions Club
Movie & Music ClubStrength and Conditioning Club
Virtual Reality Club


Recreational Athletic Programs:
Unified Sports

School Notes

  • School Motto: Seeking Balance
  • School Mascot: Warriors
  • Founded in 2005, Gateway Academy is the only non-profit, private day school in Arizona specializing in a pure population of Twice-Exceptional (2e) students with High Functioning Autism.
  • Serving grades 612, Gateway provides a safe, structured, and supportive environment where students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
  • Our mission-driven philosophy is rooted in educating the mind, body, spirit, and character of each student. We believe that how we learn, what we value, and how we live in community are vital to the development of responsible, independent young adults.
  • At Gateway, learning extends beyond academics-we integrate wellness, executive functioning, and social-emotional learning into daily life, creating a cohesive curriculum that encourages growth in every area.
  • Educational Approach - Individualized Learning We understand that no single method works for every student. Our teachers adapt strategies to match each student's unique learning style, ensuring instruction that builds comprehension, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
  • Challenging Academics Students engage in a rich curriculum that includes Honors and AP courses, Dual Enrollment opportunities, and a structured framework that fosters independence and responsibility.
  • Safe & Supportive Environment Our thoughtfully prepared, sensory-sensitive environment promotes trust, respect, and acceptance, while our Honor Code provides a philosophical foundation for behavior, guiding students in collaboration, conflict resolution, and leadership.
  • Focus on Whole Child Growth Beyond academics, Gateway nurtures self-esteem, rekindles curiosity, and encourages the healthy risk-taking necessary for true learning and personal development.
  • Community & Values Students often come to Gateway seeking a different approach after frustration in previous school settings. Here, they discover a community that values their individuality, strengths, and creativity.
  • Faculty, staff, families, and peers work together to help each student become a self-advocate, discover their passions, and realize their full potential.
  • Achievements & Recognition Accredited by COGIA and WASC.
  • Approved Private Day School (Grades 612) by the Arizona Department of Education
  • National Association of Special Education Teachers School of Excellence (2006Present)
  • Chapter of the National Honor Society
  • School Choice Leadership Award (2025)
  • Why Gateway Academy? Gateway is more than a school-it is a community of learners, educators, and families united by the belief that every Twice-Exceptional student deserves an education that challenges their intellect, supports their emotional growth, and prepares them for success in college, career, and life.
Source: Verified school update

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Gateway Academy cost?
Gateway Academy's tuition is approximately $35,500 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Gateway Academy?
The acceptance rate of Gateway Academy is 70%, which is lower than the national average of 87%. Gateway Academy's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in Arizona with low acceptance rates.
What sports does Gateway Academy offer?
Gateway Academy offers 15 interscholastic sports: Badminton, Basketball, Bowling, Cross Country, Equestrian, Flag Football, Lacrosse, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Track and Field, Ultimate Frisbee, Volleyball, Weightlifting and Winter Track. Gateway Academy is ranked as one of the top 20% of private schools in Arizona for most sports offered.
What is Gateway Academy's ranking?
Gateway Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Arizona for: Lowest average acceptance rates, Highest percentage of faculty with advanced degrees and Most sports offered.
When is the application deadline for Gateway Academy?
The application deadline for Gateway Academy is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is Gateway Academy located?
Gateway Academy is located in the Paradise Valley Village neighborhood of Phoenix, AZ. There are 17 other private schools located in Paradise Valley Village.

School Reviews

  5.00 out of 5  (10 reviews)
5  
My son has been at Gateway from grades 6 through just entering 9th and it has changed everything from his self-esteem, self-control, confidence, and ability to make and keep friends world as well as our has changed. We could never say enough about how amazing this program is. We've had other possible work opportunities out of state however would never consider leaving due to the specialty of this program. We are very grateful to Gateway!!!
- Posted by
5  
Prior to attending Gateway, our son was being bullied and teased at the public school. The class sizes were large and overwhelming. He was so continuously anxious that he fell behind in academics. It had also taken quite an emotional toll. It was heartbreaking to watch him struggle and we knew we had to find an alternative. A friend recommended Gateway because of her son`s positive experience. On his very first day at Gateway, he said, "Thank you so much for finding this school. I love it here." He`s now in his fourth year here and looks forward to school every day. The staff, educators, and therapists here are so amazing and we truly know they have all the students' best interests at heart. They have a unique, ingenious approach to educating the students while also working on life skills. Our son is back to his outgoing, happy self and his confidence has been restored because he has found a school where truly belongs.
- Posted by
5  
We are overwhelmingly grateful to have found the Gateway Academy. The journey to get here was long, a little exhausting, but totally worth it - and our son is finally where he needs to be, a place where he belongs, for his best possible future. We knew from the moment we stepped inside that we had found "home." We`ve seen our son grow more in his first week of 6th grade than we did his entire 5th-grade year at his previous school. Thank you, ALL of you, who supported us along the way. We are so proud to now be a part of the "Gateway Village." CHEERS TO 6TH GRADE!
- Posted by
5  
Gateway has been a great school for our middle schoolers. This is our second year attending and staff have been just as wonderful as last year. The curriculum is on par with what we were looking for for our child. I would say that it`s a cross between what I have found at ASD-focused schools and public schools. We have been able to communicate with all staff effectively and support both them and our child. We enjoy that the school offers clubs, extracurriculars, student council, field trips, equine therapy, and peer relationships. At this time this has been the best school fit for our child. We care immensely about the quality of staff and how capable they are of working with our child. Since we have done both public and ASD charter schools we are happy to have found a happy medium for our child. They have a supportive environment with staff and a modified curriculum. I truly appreciate the support we have received this far and our child continues to enjoy each day.
- Posted by
5  
For the first time in over 3 years, my son doesn't hate and dread going to school each and every day. He actually looks forward to it!!!!!!!! Colton is no longer picked on and bullied for being different. Instead, he has been welcomed and accepted by both the faculty and the other students. Colton's biggest challenge now is getting used to the concepts of not being the outcast, and other kids actually being nice and friendly to him instead of cruel and hurtful. As a result of this new learning environment, Colton has already begun to excel in his academics, and his true potential is beginning to be unleashed. A parent's dream comes true!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thanks, Gateway.
- Posted by
5  
I was thinking about Gateway, and you specifically, Ms. Robin. I just wanted to really thank you for everything that you did for me. I can now work a full-time job, and I am planning on enlisting in the United States Navy. I have come so far because of Gateway. I love you guys, and Gateway will forever remain in my heart, and I hope one day you will see me at my fullest potential.
- Posted by
5  
As I moved into my ASU dorm the other day, I knew that I wouldn't have made it here without the support of my wonderful teachers, Mr. Chris, Mr. Curt, Mr. Max, Dr. Bloom, and Ms. Robin. Thank you for helping me reach my potential!
- Posted by
5  
I want to give kudos to all of you at Gateway. My son for the first time in 5 years is telling people that he likes school again and is no longer asking me if he "has" to go. When asked about the school by several people including one of his doctors just this past Wednesday, he said he really liked this school. When asked to elaborate my son said the new school was fun and gave full credit to his teachers for making it that way in every subject! He is super excited about the Nerf Club and the opportunity to take Japanese, neither of which were available at his previous schools. Being freed from stressful hours of homework each evening has had a huge impact on our entire family. We are able to spend more quality time with him during the week and he now has had time to have sleepovers on the weekends instead of constantly trying to play catch up from the classwork he was unable to complete throughout the week. You all are making an amazing impact on our lives and I can't thank you guys enough. I hope that you will share this email with your coworkers. Please keep up the good work and don't hesitate to let me know if you need us to assist you in any way.
- Posted by
5  
I hope you are having a good year so far. I have been doing very well in school and I am also enjoying most of my classes. And in this school, we have SRC which stands for Student Representative Council. I won the position as Social Director and my role in the school is to arrange school parties, events, and social gatherings. I am very excited about this role and I start this upcoming term. I have learned so much from Gateway and Spectrum and I thank you both very much for teaching and taking care of me. Everything I have learned I have applied to my everyday living and look at me now. In my opinion, I am an example of the success you can achieve by applying the tools and strategies you have taught us.
- Posted by
5  
I just want you to know that Gateway Academy has my heart. Watching how much Amber has grown makes my heart sing. With the love and support of her wonderful parents and Gateway, I believe we have so much hope for her to be independent someday. I love Amber with all my heart and will do anything I can to help her. Thank you again for all you at Gateway do. Grandma Linda
- Posted by

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Quick Facts (2025)

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Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in Phoenix, AZ is $13,258 for elementary schools and $17,519 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
The average acceptance rate in Phoenix, AZ is 88% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).

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