Our Philosophy
Not Your Typical Classroom
At NeuroArts Academy, we offer a small, mixed-age learning environment designed to feel more like a creative studio than a traditional classroom.
Our intentionally small group size allows every child to be truly seen, supported, and celebrated. Students work at their own pace, with flexible, hands-on learning that honors their developmental stage, not just their age. The mixed-age structure encourages peer mentoring, leadership, and a culture of collaboration, where diverse learners thrive together in a nurturing, relationship-based space.
Flexible Child-Centered Learning
We are neither a public nor private school, which gives us the freedom to design a learning environment that truly centers each child. Without the constraints of traditional systems, we’re able to offer flexible, responsive instruction that supports both academic and social-emotional growth.
Students attend four days a week at our 730 Halstead Rd. location, Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and are legally considered homeschoolers. We guide families through the required documentation and provide comprehensive, whole-child learning that blends hands-on academics, creative expression, and relationship-based support.
For families seeking a fifth day of programming, we offer our Creative Minds program on Fridays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.—a fully arts- and music-based day featuring fun clubs, creative lessons, and expressive activities designed to inspire and engage.
Integrated Arts Approach
The arts aren’t an add-on; they’re woven into everything we do. Through our Creative Arts Labs, students engage in music groups, crafting, visual art, movement, drama, and dance. These creative experiences are integrated into academic learning, helping students explore math, literacy, science, and social studies in meaningful, sensory-rich ways. The arts support emotional expression, regulation, and whole-brain learning, offering every child a powerful way to connect, create, and thrive.
Therapeutic Support
Wellness and regulation are woven into every part of our day. Students participate in daily music groups led by our board-certified music therapist or music therapy interns, supporting emotional expression, connection, and self-regulation. We offer wellness check-ins and embed neuro-affirming, DIR-informed care into our classroom culture, routines, and relationships.
For students who need additional support, we can provide individualized therapeutic services throughout the day, whether they have an IEP or simply benefit from extra guidance. While there is an additional fee for the initial therapy evaluation, all in-day therapeutic services are included in tuition and fees. Our flexible setting allows us to meet each learner where they are and support their growth with creativity, compassion, and care.
Academic Approach
Our academic model is unit-based, with rich, overarching themes that guide each term. During our morning core academic time, students explore math, literacy, history, and science through hands-on, applied learning that connects directly to their world.
Instruction happens through short, engaging “burst lessons” that last no more than 10 to 20 minutes, introducing key skills and concepts tied to the unit. Students then dive into project-based, student-led learning that encourages creativity, critical thinking, and personal exploration.
At the start of each school year, every student receives an educational assessment to understand their current learning profile. This allows us to provide developmentally appropriate challenges and supports tailored to their needs.
Our Neuro-Navigators (teachers) bring a wide range of expertise, allowing students to stretch beyond grade levels and explore as far as their curiosity and imagination can take them.