Help Keep Malachi in the School That’s Right for Him

I’m reaching out to raise support for my dear friends, Jonathon and Arella Gist, and their 7-year-old son, Malachi. Jonathon serves in the Army, and Arella has been a dedicated stay-at-home mom for the past 7 years, caring for their children, including their youngest, Micah.

Malachi’s journey has been a difficult one. He spent two years in public school, and those years were nothing short of a nightmare. He was bullied, misunderstood, and placed on behavioral plans that did not address his true needs. After testing, Malachi’s parents discovered that he’s not autistic, as initially thought — he’s an incredibly gifted child who had simply been under-challenged in the traditional school system. The lack of engagement led to him being wrongly labeled as “behavioral,” when in reality, he was bored and desperately in need of a curriculum that would challenge and inspire him.

When Jonathon and Arella found the Colorado Springs School, it was a game changer. This school is not just a place for Malachi to learn — it’s where he can thrive. The environment is exactly what he needs: smaller class sizes, personalized attention, and an interactive, hands-on approach to learning that keeps him engaged and excited. Malachi has undergone a complete transformation. He went from being a shy, withdrawn, and frustrated child to a confident, outgoing, and eager student. He LOVES going to school every day, and his progress has been nothing short of extraordinary.

The Gist family is facing a heartbreaking reality: the significant discount they received for the past year will no longer be available due to changes in the school’s funding. Without your help, Malachi will have to leave the environment that has helped him blossom and return to a school where he was struggling, misunderstood, and unhappy. We cannot let this happen. Malachi deserves to stay in the school that understands him, challenges him, and provides the opportunities he needs to reach his full potential.

This is more than just about a school — it’s about Malachi’s future. His current school has given him the tools, confidence, and joy he needs to succeed, and it’s essential that he remains in an environment where he can continue to grow. Your support will ensure that Malachi’s bright future is not cut short.

Please help us raise the funds needed to keep Malachi where he belongs — in a school that is setting him up for success. Every contribution, no matter the size, will make a profound impact on his life and education.

Thank you so much for your generosity and support. Together, we can help Malachi continue to shine!