Arete Academy

have a sense of belonging. The inspiration for the name of our school is the Greek word “Arete” which was originally translated as “the act of living up to one’s potential.” The Arete Academy of Exceptional Education will both nurture our students’ unique gifts, as well as support their learning differences - giving them the opportunity to reach their fullest potential. In the world of giftedness, there is a segment of the population that is called "twice exceptional" (2e), which has various definitions: gifted + learning disabilities such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, auditory processing disorder, and/or ADHD. Estimates vary, but experts believe it is up to 20% of the gifted population. Giftedness in general can be challenging for schools and parents, even with special programs, but it gets even more challenging when you add learning differences. "WHAT?!, you can build a rocket ship to the moon, but you can't read well? You must not be trying hard enough..." These learning differences are not easily identified and children who are 2e may appear uninterested, lazy, distracted, or disruptive in class. They also may feel frustrated, anxious, and depressed which affects their self-esteem and enthusiasm for learning. Individuals who are twice exceptional are great innovators, scientists, entrepreneurs, surgeons, etc. and thrive in places like Silicon Valley. In New York, DC, Denver, Nashville, Baltimore and other cities, there are 2e schools that are achieving great success. We don't yet have one in the Twin Cities - until now!