Ignite Achievement Academy provides comprehensive special education services for students in the Lockwood neighborhood of Charlotte, NC. Our North Charlotte campus offers personalized education for students with learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, language disorders, anxiety, and depression. Conveniently located near Lockwood at 3835 W. WT Harris Blvd., our campus is easily accessible for families in the 28206 zip code and surrounding areas.

A Supportive Learning Environment in North Charlotte

At Ignite Achievement Academy, we understand that students with special needs require both customized instruction and a customized environment. Our North Charlotte campus serves students from Lockwood and nearby neighborhoods with a range of specialized programs designed to address diverse learning barriers.

Our Approach to Special Education

Individualized Academic Plans

Every student at our Lockwood special education campus receives an individualized academic plan that outlines:

• Current achievement levels across multiple domains
• Specific learning objectives tailored to the student's needs
• Curriculum selections based on learning style and requirements
• Necessary accommodations and modifications
• Intensity of instruction needed for each skill area

The IAA Academic Process

Our research-based, four-step process ensures effective education for students with learning barriers:

1. Determine skill achievement through comprehensive assessment
2. Identify reasons for skill delays to address root causes
3. Develop and deliver a customized instructional plan with appropriate objectives, teaching approaches, intensity, and accommodations
4. Monitor progress and adjust the plan as needed based on data and observation

This systematic approach allows us to continuously refine each student's learning experience to maximize growth and achievement.

Small Class Sizes and Personalized Attention

Our commitment to small classes ensures that each student receives the attention they need:

• Maximum of 6 students per typical classroom
• BEACON program classes average 4 students
• One-to-one instruction for specific skill development
• Teaching assistants provide additional support
• Regular pull-out sessions for targeted skill work

Get to know our teachers and staff here.

Programs for Diverse Learning Needs

Comprehensive K-12 Education

Our core educational program serves students from kindergarten through 12th grade in the Lockwood area with:

• Small class sizes (typically 6 students per class)
• Low student-to-teacher ratios with teaching assistants
• Individualized Academic Plans for each student
• Research-based curricula designed for diverse learners
• One-to-one instruction for skills development
• Structured school day from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM

BEACON Program

Available exclusively at our North Charlotte campus near Lockwood, the BEACON program serves students with speech and behavioral disabilities through:

• Ultra-small class sizes averaging four students per teacher
• Speech-Language Pathologist co-teaching in non-speaking/limited-speaking classrooms
• Comprehensive behavioral support
• Hands-on curriculum and sensory experiences
• On-campus sensory room
• Support for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices
• Full inclusion in school activities including cooking, woodshop, PE, music, and art

FLAME Program (Functional Learning to Acquire Meaningful Experience)

For high school students who are not traditionally college-bound, our FLAME program focuses on:

• Life-skills training
• Vocational preparation
• Community-based learning experiences
• Job readiness skills
• Independent living skills
• Financial literacy
• Social and emotional learning

After-School Tutoring

Our Lockwood area campus also offers after-school tutoring services from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM for:

• Remedial skill-building
• Subject-specific support
• Homework and study skills coaching

Addressing Specific Learning Barriers

1. Autism Spectrum Disorder

Our autism school Lockwood area families can access provides specialized support including:

• Structured, predictable learning environments
• Visual supports and schedules
• Social skills instruction
• Sensory-friendly classrooms and activities
• Communication supports including AAC when needed
• Behavior management strategies
• Opportunities for generalization of skills

2. Learning Disabilities

For students with learning disabilities Lockwood families will find comprehensive support:

• Evidence-based interventions for dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia
• Multisensory instruction techniques
• Accommodations and modifications to support learning
• Assistive technology as appropriate
• Focus on building academic confidence and self-advocacy

3. ADHD and Attention Challenges

Our ADHD programs Charlotte students benefit from include:

• Structured learning environments with minimal distractions
• Clear expectations and consistent routines
• Movement breaks and flexible seating options
• Executive functioning skill development
• Self-regulation strategies
• Organizational skills instruction
• Small group instruction to maximize engagement

4. Language Disorders

Students with language disorders receive support through:

• Integrated speech-language therapy
• Vocabulary development
• Social communication practice
• Reading comprehension strategies
• Expressive language development
• Alternative communication supports when needed

5. Anxiety and Depression

For students with emotional challenges, we provide:

• Supportive, accepting environment
• Stress management techniques
• Predictable routines to reduce anxiety
• Coping strategies instruction
• Accommodations during high-stress periods
• Close communication with families

Curriculum at Our North Charlotte Campus

Our special needs school 28206 area students attend utilizes a variety of specialized curricula to meet diverse learning needs.

Core Academic Curriculum

• enCORE: A comprehensive cross-curricular program covering math, language arts, science, and social studies at multiple levels. This curriculum includes direct components for AAC usage, hands-on learning, and literature at different levels.
• Manus Curriculum: Specially written to address students with learning barriers, covering foundations through high school level in mathematics, grammar, writing, spelling, reading, fluency, and phonics.
• SPIRE Reading Program: Explicit, teacher-led multisensory instruction based on the science of reading, particularly beneficial for students with dyslexia and other reading challenges.

Science and Social Studies Curriculum

• Generation Genius: Hands-on experiments and projects for every topic
• Mystery Science: Standards-aligned lessons with engaging phenomenon-based videos
• Various Textbooks: From Discovery Education and McGraw Hill for high school level courses

Applied Learning

Our Lockwood special education programs emphasize practical application through:

• Cooking and Nutrition Classes: Learning about food preparation, kitchen safety, and nutrition
• Garden Science: Maintaining vegetable gardens and learning about plant science
• Shop Class: Building projects that develop fine motor skills and practical knowledge
• Crafts: Following step-by-step instructions to create various arts and crafts

Technology Integration

Students at our North Charlotte campus benefit from:

• 1:1 laptop or iPad assignments
• Technology as a supplement to traditional learning
• Support for AAC devices in appropriate classrooms
• Digital literacy and technology skills development

Campus Features and Resources

Sensory Room

Our private school Lockwood area families can access features a dedicated sensory room equipped with:

• Soft lighting and comfortable seating options
• Tents and "nooks" for quiet spaces
• Beanbag chairs and therapy balls
• Bubble tubes and balance equipment
• Sensory swings and projection systems
• Weighted lap pads and sensory bins

Specialized Therapy Services

On-site therapy services available at our North Charlotte location include:

• Speech-Language Pathology integrated into classrooms
• Additional after-school therapy options
• Potential for PT and OT services during school hours (contact us for availability)

Serving the Lockwood Community

Geographic Accessibility

Our North Charlotte campus serves families from many nearby neighborhoods, including:

• Lockwood
• North Charlotte
• Northeast Charlotte
• Hidden Valley
• Derita
• Highland Creek
• College Downs
• Tryon Hills
• Wilson Heights
• Mineral Springs
• Mallard Creek
• Concord
• Kannapolis

Transportation

Students typically arrive via:

• Parent/family transportation
• Carpools with other IAA families
• Private transportation services

Admissions Process

Is Ignite Achievement Academy Right for Your Child?

Our special needs school 28206 area families can access may be the right fit if your child:

• Has academic barriers that make traditional school challenging
• Needs both customized instruction and a customized environment
• Benefits from small group settings and individual attention
• Has a diagnosis of autism, ADHD, learning disability, or other learning challenges
• Requires specialized support but does not exhibit violent behaviors

Discover more about fit with our program here.

How to Apply

Our admissions process includes:

1. Initial parent meeting and campus tour
2. Submission of admissions application
3. Records request from previous schools
4. Possible student shadow day
5. Placement assessment and instructional plan development

Tuition and Financial Aid

Financial Aid Options

North Carolina residents may qualify for:

• NC Opportunity Scholarship Program: Provides $3,000-$7,000 based on household income
• Education Student Accounts (ESA+): Awards $9,000 or $17,000 depending on the child's disability

Many families combine these scholarships to significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Payment Plans

We offer flexible payment options, including:

• Single payment plans
• Monthly payment plans
• Semester payment plans aligned with scholarship distribution

Assessment and Results

Ongoing Progress Monitoring

Student progress is regularly assessed through:

• Informal curriculum-based assessments
• Observation and data collection
• Standardized achievement tests (administered in grades 3, 6, 9, and 11)
• Regular review and adjustment of individualized academic plans

Proven Results

Our specialized approach leads to measurable results:

• Students typically show between six months and two or more years of progress in each skill area annually
• Improved self-confidence and reduced anxiety about school
• Development of critical self-advocacy skills
• Preparation for future educational or vocational opportunities

Read testimonials from our students and their parents here.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How is Ignite Achievement Academy different from public school special education services?

While public schools provide valuable services, our specialized environment offers significantly smaller class sizes, more individualized attention, and a comprehensive approach that addresses both academic and non-academic needs. Our entire school is designed for students with learning barriers, rather than being a program within a larger setting.

2. How do you determine the appropriate program for my child?

During the admissions process, we conduct a thorough assessment of your child's current skills, learning style, and specific needs. This information, combined with previous school records and parent input, helps us determine which program (standard, BEACON, or FLAME) and classroom placement would best support your child's growth.

3. Do you accept students mid-year?

Yes, we accept students throughout the school year based on availability. Our structured approach to assessment and instruction allows us to integrate new students at various points in the academic year.

4. How do NC scholarship programs work with your tuition?

Many families use a combination of the NC Opportunity Scholarship and ESA+ funds to cover most or all of their tuition costs. Our administrative team can help you understand how these programs work and how to apply. Scholarship applications typically open on February 1st each year.

5. What after-school options are available?

Our Lockwood area campus offers after-school tutoring from 3:30-6:30 PM. We provide one-on-one instruction for remedial skills, subject-specific support, and homework assistance. Some therapy services may also be available after school hours.

Take the Next Step

Discover how Ignite Achievement Academy can provide the specialized education your child needs to thrive academically and socially. Our North Charlotte campus serves the Lockwood community with comprehensive programs for students with autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, and other special needs in a supportive, structured environment.

Contact us today to schedule a tour of our campus and learn more about our approach to special education in North Charlotte.