Success Stories

The most powerful part of our work? Watching students thrive. Hear directly from the people who’ve experienced the Conduit difference.

Featured Story: Tucker

Meet Tucker Findley, a 14-year-old from Virginia who turned his learning challenges into entrepreneurial triumph. Diagnosed with dyslexia and dyscalculia, Tucker began by selling found golf balls at age 9. With determination and family support, he launched “Tucker’s Vintage Treasures,” an online store specializing in antiques and collectibles. His venture not only became a six-figure success but also helped him develop essential skills in math, reading, and negotiation. Tucker’s story is a testament to how embracing one’s unique strengths can lead to remarkable achievements.

Dystinct Magazine’s April 2025 issue offers a compelling collection of stories and expert insights centered on neurodivergent learners. From teen entrepreneur Tucker Findley’s journey to transforming academic challenges into a thriving business, to evidence-based articles on literacy assessment and dyslexia advocacy, this edition provides valuable perspectives for parents, educators, and advocates. Discover how embracing individual strengths can lead to meaningful success.

Parent Testimonials

I met Amy Oswalt when she was the director of my children’s previous school. I have four neurodivergent children with different learning profiles and finding a school where all four were not just accepted but valued for who they are has been somewhat of a Goldilocks experience. Independent schools for neurotypical children didn’t provide enough support and my children were seen as a burden because they are different.

Schools that focused on their language based learning differences didn’t support the emotions that come along with having learning challenges.

But when I met Amy I knew I had found the “just right” place for them. She continually told me my children were awesome, which is true but was refreshing to hear! She just gets them. She celebrates their strengthens, works with them on their weaknesses, and values their unique perspectives. She is a gem. She is so knowledgeable, passionate and experienced working with neurodiverse kids. She was able to develop a program and hire staff that motivated them to become passionate about learning again.

They all love school again and that alone is impressive considering my older daughter was completely refusing to attend at one point. I am so excited that my children will be attending Conduit this fall and can’t wait to see where Amy leads them next!

Katherine C.

As a parent of a 14-year-old student at Conduit, I have seen incredible growth in my daughter. Diagnosed with a medical condition and unique learning needs, she struggled with confidence and academic challenges. The personalized support from Conduit’s teachers has significantly boosted her self-esteem, particularly in reading and math. A standout moment was when she completed a complex woodworking project, showcasing her improved skills. The integration of assistive technology and individualized instruction has transformed her attitude towards learning from frustration to enthusiasm.

Initially, we were concerned about finding a program that could meet her needs, but Conduit exceeded our expectations by providing tailored support that benefits our whole family. The collaboration between the teachers and us as parents has been invaluable, ensuring that we are all working together to support her journey. Taylor’s participation in other activities she loves, facilitated by Conduit’s flexible schedule, has further enhanced her skills and confidence.

I highly recommend Conduit to other families for its personalized support, dedicated teachers, and effective use of technology. Conduit has not only prepared her academically but also instilled in her essential skills for future success.

Leah F.

My son entered Conduit as an 8-year-old. He struggles with severe anxiety, dyslexia, and never spoke in class. I cannot express enough gratitude for the impact Conduit has had on our lives. Before enrolling, we were worried about finding an educational environment that could accommodate our child’s unique needs and help him overcome his anxiety – we had just relocated due to COVID and moved to a a more remote location.

From the very first day, the compassionate and understanding teachers at Conduit made a significant difference.One of the most memorable moments was when our child, for the first time, participated in a virtual class discussion. This breakthrough brought tears to our eyes and filled us with hope for the future. The individualized instruction and supportive environment provided by Conduit have been instrumental in building our child’s confidence and reducing their anxiety.

The use of assistive technology has also been a game-changer, allowing our child to engage with the curriculum in a way that feels safe and manageable.

We were initially concerned about how an online program could meet our child’s needs, but Conduit has surpassed our expectations. The program’s flexibility, coupled with its commitment to understanding and addressing each student’s unique challenges, has made a world of difference.

For any parents considering Conduit, I wholeheartedly recommend it – please reach out! The dedicated staff and tailored approach have not only helped our child academically but have also supported their overall well-being, paving the way for a brighter, more confident future. Conduit has truly been a blessing for our family.

Jackie B.

We were at our wit’s end trying to find the right support for our son. Traditional school just wasn’t cutting it, and we needed something that really understood his unique challenges. Enter Conduit. From day one, the teachers were so kind and patient, taking the time to get to know him and figure out what makes him tick.

One day, my nonreader son came running out of his room, grinning from ear to ear, because he had just read a full page by himself. I nearly cried! Seeing his confidence grow has been such a joy. The way Conduit tailors their lessons to fit each kid’s needs is just amazing. He gets to learn at his own pace, and the pressure’s off, which makes a huge difference.

The teachers use all sorts of cool tools and tricks to help with reading and math. He is actually starting to enjoy learning, and that’s something I never thought I’d say. Plus, the support we get as parents has been fantastic. We always know what’s going on and how we can help him at home. For anyone out there who’s got a kid with similar struggles, I can’t recommend Conduit enough. It’s been a lifeline for us. He’s not just keeping up now; he’s thriving. Conduit has truly given him the chance to shine, and we couldn’t be happier. Give it a go—you won’t regret it!

Ted J.

Q&A with Conduit parent Marianne Bakia

In what ways has working with us changed your child's attitude towards learning?

My daughter really did a 180 degree turnaround after working with the great staff at Conduit. She went from being anxious and avoidant to engaged. Previously, she really didn't like school as it seemed pretty boring, and she had not seen much progress. However, she now realizes that she can apply what she learns to practical situations. She wants to know how to get answers to her questions. Teachers at Conduit did a great job of offering my daughter a learning toolkit that included use of a variety of technologies. She is off and running now.

How have the teachers at Conduit made a difference in your child's learning journey?

I am so thankful that we found the folks at Conduit when we did. We were feeling stuck about how to meet the learning needs of our daughter. Staff at Conduit were able to design a program with my specific child's specific needs. Amy was so great to work with. I don't want to think about how things would have turned out if we hadn't connected with her when we did.

How has the use of assistive technology improved your child's learning experience?

I think the use of technology for learning needs is under-rated. My daughter loves the independence that assistive technologies give her. Speech to text and text to speech allowed her to communicate through the written word in ways she could not before. She can research online much more effectively, and she can also use a range of software like canva and book creator independently.