Frequently asked questions
The questions families ask us most, answered plainly. If you do not see yours here, we would love to talk it through.
About Open Wings
What is a neurodiversity-affirming school?
A neurodiversity-affirming school treats differences like autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities as natural variations to understand and support, not problems to fix. At Open Wings, that means we build on each child's strengths, teach in the way they actually learn, and put regulation, trust, and belonging first, so students feel loved at school, not just tolerated.
How is Open Wings different from a traditional school?
Most schools ask a child to fit into the school. Open Wings fits the school around the child. Classes are small, instruction is individualized, and the day is built around how neurodivergent learners actually thrive. We have served families across southeastern Wisconsin as a nonprofit since 2012.
Is Open Wings accredited?
Yes. Open Wings Learning Community is accredited through the Independent Schools Association of the Central States (ISACS).
Where are your campuses, and what are your hours?
We have two campuses, both with office hours from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Open Wings South is at 13022 Wilmot Road, Kenosha, WI 53142 (262-697-7744). Open Wings North is at 4650 N. Port Washington Rd., Glendale, WI 53212 (414-210-2091).
Programs and fit
What grades and ages does Open Wings serve?
Our Kenosha campus (Open Wings South) serves students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Our Glendale campus (Open Wings North) serves kindergarten through 5th grade today, with upper grades coming as the campus grows.
What learning differences does Open Wings support?
We support a range of neurodivergent learners, including autistic students and students with ADHD, learning disabilities, sensory processing differences, and anxiety. Every child is different, so the best way to know whether Open Wings is the right fit is a conversation and a visit.
How small are the classes?
Classrooms average six students with both a teacher and an associate, roughly one adult for every three children. Small groups mean every student is known by name, strengths, and needs, rather than managed as a crowd.
What is a typical day like?
In the lower grades, students begin with reading, writing, and math in the morning, then move to science, social studies, the arts, sign language, and kinetic wellness in the afternoon, inside a calm, predictable routine. Older students learn in a small cohort with a consistent teacher, pair core subjects with long-term STEAM projects, and take part in CORE, our social-emotional and service-learning program. Outdoor time and real-world field experiences run throughout.
Admissions and tours
How does admissions work?
We have rolling admissions and accept applications at any time. After we receive a completed application and the student attends two required shadow days, we make an admissions decision within about two weeks.
How do I schedule a tour?
The best way to understand Open Wings is to walk through it. To tour the Kenosha campus, email office@openwingslearning.org. To tour the Glendale campus, email joribroidy@openwingslearning.org. It helps to include your child's grade, why you are interested in Open Wings, and the best way to reach you.
Tuition and financial aid
What does tuition cost, and what financial aid is available?
For current tuition, please contact the school office and we will walk you through the numbers. Cost should not be the reason a child cannot attend, so we offer income-based tuition adjustments and accept the Wisconsin Special Needs Scholarship Program.
Do you accept the Wisconsin Special Needs Scholarship Program?
Yes. Open Wings accepts the Wisconsin Special Needs Scholarship Program (SNSP), and we also offer income-based tuition adjustments to help make the school accessible to more families.
Still have a question?
The best way to understand Open Wings is to visit. We are happy to answer anything and show you a school day up close.