Help Us Support Finn’s Education & Future in an Inclusive, Nurturing Environment

Dear Family, Friends, and Community,

We are reaching out to share our journey and to ask for your support in finding the best educational path for our child, Finn. He is a curious, creative, and energetic child who has thrived in environments that nurture his imagination and value diverse learning styles. As a family, we have faced unique challenges, and we want to give Finn the best start possible, in a place where he can grow, learn, and truly belong.

Why We Are Seeking Your Help

Finn has been diagnosed with ADHD and sensory processing disorder. Traditional school environments have been challenging due to their focus on rote learning, which doesn’t align with Finn's strengths. Finn needs a space where he can move, explore, ask questions, and engage in hands-on learning. A school that fosters curiosity instead of stifling it.

Finn currently attends Magnolia Forest Preschool , a wonderful, inclusive space where he’s been encouraged to express his big emotions, creativity, and love for hands-on learning. This environment has sparked a joy for learning in him that we want to continue nurturing.

The School That Fits Finn’s Needs

Our goal is to enroll Finn in Silverwood School , an inclusive, K-8 institution that offers STEM and Social Studies-based learning in a supportive, diverse environment. The school’s small class sizes, emphasis on executive functioning skills, and outdoor learning align perfectly with Finn’s needs. This school not only nurtures curiosity but is a welcoming space for LGBTQIA+ families, something crucial for our family’s comfort and Finn’s sense of belonging.

Silverwood's tuition is $16,000 per year, and while they offer financial aid, it may only cover up to 50%. We are hoping to raise $48,000 to cover three (3) years of tuition and additional educational needs. This would give us the time to catch up on the financial setbacks we’ve faced since the pandemic and build a stable foundation for Finn’s future.

Why Now

We have considered other schools, including Catalyst Public Schools , a tuition-free charter school that offers a holistic education. Catalyst aligns well with Finn’s needs, and if we are accepted through their lottery system, we are excited and ready to pursue that opportunity. However, because acceptance isn’t guaranteed, we are also preparing for Silverwood as a strong alternative that offers the stability and outdoor learning environment Finn thrives in. In addition, many public school options raise concerns about safety and inclusivity, particularly given the challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ families in today’s climate. We support public education, but feel that, for Finn, a space that deeply understands his needs is necessary.

Your Support Means the World

Every dollar raised will go directly to Finn’s education—whether it's tuition, school supplies, uniforms, extracurricular activities, or other needs. Any additional funds will be saved for Finn’s future education or experiences that support his growth.

Instead of holiday or birthday gifts over the next few years, we would be so grateful if you would consider contributing to Finn’s future. A contribution of any size will help us provide him with the education he deserves.

Why This Matters to Us

We know what it’s like to struggle in traditional learning environments. I have ASD (Autism spectrum disorder) and my partner has ADHD (Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder). We both faced challenges growing up, feeling unsupported and misunderstood by systems that didn’t cater to different learning styles. We want to give Finn the opportunity to grow with confidence and joy, in an environment that respects his unique needs.

Our Story

The past few years have been challenging. We’re still recovering from pandemic-related unemployment, medical emergencies, and the toll of a difficult pregnancy. My partner works full-time, while I homeschool Finn part-time and take on housekeeping, performance work, art commissions, and other supplementary income work to support his current tuition. My mother has also been a crucial help during this time. Despite these hurdles, Finn’s well-being and education remain our top priority.

Thank You

Thank you for taking the time to read our story. Even if you can’t contribute financially, sharing this message with others would mean so much to us. We appreciate any support—emotional, financial, or otherwise—that you can offer.

With deep gratitude,

Dipp B.

(They/Them)