Welcome
Greetings from the Admissions Office. Though we are the beginning of every Gow journey, we know we are probably not the beginning of yours. Most families come to us after an arduous quest they didn’t plan on. We re-launch them on a new adventure, one that’s straighter and shorter, enables them to rethink what learning can be, and leads them where they want to go and where they didn’t realize they could.
Our aim is to determine if a student can benefit from Gow’s curriculum and environment, structured to fit the needs of students with diagnosed language-based learning disabilities such as dyslexia. For those who can benefit, real change starts fast and lasts long—through college and career. For many, Gow is the first school where they’re on a level playing field with their peers and fully supported by their teachers, who teach as if their students’ futures depend on it. Together we are Gow United.
Where there is a good fit between student and school, magic happens—in class, on the field, in the art studio, and in the dorm. To determine if the fit is right, we’ll need to see diagnostic testing, school transcripts, recommendations, and a personal interview, just as you’ll want to see our beautiful Western New York campus and the people who provide its spark. But we’re getting ahead of ourselves. First, let’s talk.
Douglas B. Cotter '87 P '19, '23
Director of Admissions
p 716.687.2001
f 716.687.2003
admissions@gow.org
Required
Meet our Students
“At my old school, teachers didn't get me or my learning style, for the first time, my teachers get me. The small class sizes, and teacher and student connections, make me feel comfortable to ask questions in class instead of hiding in the back of the room.”
“Starting in The Gow School Summer Program really gave me the head start I needed. I was able to get comfortable with the teachers, campus, and living from home, so then when I moved in for the school year, I was confident and was able to show other kids the ropes."
“Dyslexia runs in my family, but I always got good grades and loved school so my parents never thought to get me tested. One day, school got really hard, and no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't earn the grades that I had just last year. I finally got tested and turned out I was dyslexic just like my brother Jude '19."
“I struggled with school a lot and used to always hide in the back to avoid being called on at my old school. Fast forward five years and I am now the Student Council President. Gow gave me my confidence."