Elon to open Roberts Academy for dyslexia, serving local students

Elon University hosted the first Discovering Dyslexia information session on December 10, drawing parents, community members, and prospective faculty and staff as officials rolled out plans for the Roberts Academy. The academy will open in Fall 2026 as a university based private school initially serving third and fourth grades, with a planned expansion to first through sixth grades by Fall 2028.

Attendees heard background on dyslexia and details about the Roberts Academy instructional model, which will center on the Orton Gillingham approach and structured literacy methods. Leaders described plans for small class sizes and an emphasis on teacher training, positioning the school both as a site for students and a professional training center for educators. Alicia Tate, acting director, highlighted the dual mission of direct student support and training future teachers through the university affiliation.

The project addresses local gaps in specialized literacy instruction by creating a nearby option for families seeking intensive, evidence based intervention. For Alamance County residents, a university based school could reduce travel burdens for families, shorten wait lists for assessment and services, and add a pipeline of teachers equipped with structured literacy skills. Those changes carry public health implications because reading proficiency is linked to educational attainment, mental health, and long term economic stability.

The academy team also outlined next steps for enrollment and staffing. Interest forms and applications are scheduled to open in early 2026. Prospective teachers will be recruited and trained through academy programs tied to Elon, and community members were invited to stay engaged as planning continues.

As the Roberts Academy moves from announcement to enrollment, its impact will depend on recruiting diverse students and staff, coordinating with local schools and providers, and ensuring affordability and accessibility for families across the county. For now, the December session marked a first step toward a new local resource for students with dyslexia and a potential model for strengthening literacy training in the region.