REVIEW OF Read Write Think Private School BY parent, Maria Castro

(5) Student Experience

My daughter's experience at Read Write Think has been transformative. After struggling in traditional school settings, she's rediscovered her love of learning. What she appreciates most is the genuine encouragement from teachers who truly see her potential and go the extra mile to support her growth. She also values the peer community—students celebrate each other's strengths and help one another succeed rather than compete. The holistic approach addressing her reading confidence and behavioural challenges from the root has made the biggest difference. As for disappointments, honestly, there aren't any significant concerns. The school delivers on its promise of personalized attention and meaningful growth. My daughter now looks forward to school each day, engages willingly in learning, and has regained confidence in herself. That's everything we hoped for.

Why Read Write Think Private School?

After watching my daughter struggle—losing confidence, avoiding learning, and withdrawing from school—we knew the traditional approach wasn't working. We considered several private schools, but Read Write Think stood out for one clear reason: they didn't just promise academic improvement; they promised to understand why my daughter was struggling and address it holistically. What tipped the scales was their focus on the whole child—behaviour, confidence, and learning together—rather than just test scores. During our consultation, the staff asked the right questions about her challenges, listened genuinely, and outlined a personalized approach that made sense to us. But the deciding factor was the school community itself. We learned that Read Write Think isn't just about excellent teachers (though they are); it's about creating an environment where children encourage each other, celebrate strengths, and support one another. What really impressed us was their practical approach to education. When learning about money and entrepreneurship, students create—whether artwork, stickers, or home projects—and then actually sell their creations. This isn't a classroom exercise; it's a real business lesson at college level. My daughter learned pricing, marketing, and customer service. Those are lessons no textbook can teach. Within weeks of enrollment, we saw the results. My daughter's confidence returned; she wanted to do homework, and she felt genuinely encouraged—by teachers and peers alike. Read Write Think wasn't just another school option; it was the school that understood our daughter's needs and had a proven approach to help her thrive. If your child is struggling in traditional settings, I'd encourage you to experience what we discovered.

Expectations vs. Reality

Read Write Think delivered exactly what they promised during our initial consultation. The personalized, holistic approach to addressing my daughter's challenges was real—not just marketing talk. Teachers truly do go the extra mile, the community genuinely encourages peer support, and the school environment is genuinely supportive rather than competitive. The academic improvement we hoped for materialized within weeks. Honestly, the school surpassed what we anticipated in several meaningful ways. We expected academic support; we got educators who became genuine advocates for our daughter's growth. We hoped for a caring environment; we experienced a true community where students actively lift each other up. But what truly surprised us was the practical life lessons woven throughout the curriculum. The entrepreneurship project—where students create and sell their own products—taught real business skills we didn't anticipate. These aren't theoretical lessons; they're college-level practical skills being taught at a foundational age. That depth of real-world learning was beyond our initial expectations. The only minor adjustment was understanding that transformation takes time and partnership. We had to be patient and actively support the process at home, which the school clearly communicated. That's not a divergence; it's simply realistic. The school underpromises and overdelivers, which builds trust. Overall, Read Write Think aligned with our hopes and exceeded our expectations in ways that matter most.

Your Advice

If your child is struggling in traditional school settings—losing confidence, avoiding learning, or withdrawing—don't wait, hoping things will improve on their own. That's what we did for two years, and it only got harder. My one piece of advice: Trust that the right school can fundamentally change your child's relationship with learning. We almost didn't make the switch. We kept thinking our daughter would "catch up" or "adjust" in the traditional system. We rationalized, we waited, and meanwhile, her confidence continued to slip. Looking back, those two years of struggle were unnecessary. Read Write Think changed everything because they don't just teach subjects; they rebuild confidence and reignite joy in learning. The holistic approach—addressing behaviour, confidence, and academics together—actually works. The teachers genuinely care. The community of students who encourage each other is real. And yes, the practical life skills they teach (like the entrepreneurship projects) prepare children for the real world in ways traditional schools don't. But here's what matters most: If your gut tells you traditional school isn't working for your child, trust that instinct. Your child doesn't need to fit the system; they need a system that fits them. Read Write Think is that school. It wasn't just an educational decision for us; it was the decision that gave our daughter back her confidence, her love of learning, and her future. Visit the school. Talk to current families. Then decide. But don't wait as we did.

(5) School Leadership

What stands out immediately is that Read Write Think's leadership genuinely understands child development and learning psychology. This isn't a school run by administrators focused solely on enrollment numbers or test scores. The leadership team, from the director down, is clearly invested in creating an environment where every child can thrive. Their holistic philosophy isn't just a tagline—it's embedded in how the school operates. The administration responds to concerns promptly and thoughtfully. During our daughter's initial transition, we had questions and concerns; the leadership team addressed them directly, never dismissing our worries. They take parent feedback seriously and demonstrate flexibility in finding solutions that work for each child. It feels like a genuine partnership, not a one-way hierarchy. What impressed us most was how they handle discipline. Rather than punitive consequences, the school uses behavioural challenges as teaching opportunities. They address the root cause of misbehaviour and guide children toward better choices—consistent with their holistic philosophy. Discipline feels fair and purposeful, not arbitrary. The school communicates transparently and regularly. Parents stay informed about their child's progress, challenges, and growth—both academic and behavioural. The leadership is accessible; concerns are heard and addressed. There's no communication gap between school and home, which makes all the difference in supporting your child's development. Overall, the leadership creates a culture where every decision prioritizes the child's well-being and growth. That foundation makes everything else work.

(5) Teaching

The quality of teaching at Read Write Think is exceptional. What we immediately noticed was that lessons aren't one-size-fits-all. Teachers differentiate instruction based on each child's learning style and pace, which is why our daughter—who had fallen behind in traditional settings—could finally keep up without feeling rushed or left behind. The teachers are genuinely passionate about what they teach and deeply knowledgeable about child development. They don't just deliver curriculum; they understand how children learn and tailor their approach accordingly. Our daughter's teacher recognized her reading struggles weren't about laziness or lack of effort—they identified a specific learning need and addressed it with targeted, evidence-based strategies. That level of expertise and care is rare. Teachers communicate consistently and constructively. They don't just point out what's wrong; they provide specific, actionable feedback on how to improve. They celebrate small victories and progress, which builds confidence. My daughter receives regular updates on her academic growth and behavioral development, and the feedback is always framed as encouraging progress, not criticism. What truly sets the teachers apart is how they celebrate achievements beyond academics. My daughter recently earned her black belt in Taekwondo, and when she did show-and-tell to demonstrate her skills and accomplishment, the teacher didn't just acknowledge it—they celebrated it genuinely. The teacher recognized the discipline, perseverance, and dedication required to achieve that milestone. That moment taught our daughter that her accomplishments—athletic, personal, and academic—all matter and are valued. The school understands that confidence in one area builds confidence everywhere. Teachers understand that growth happens at the edge of a child's comfort zone—not too easy, not overwhelming. My daughter is appropriately challenged in ways she can meet with effort and support. When she struggles, the teacher provides scaffolding and guidance. When she succeeds, they push her further. She's building real competence, not just confidence. Our daughter now sees learning as achievable and enjoyable. She respects her teachers, trusts their guidance, and wants to meet their expectations. She's a confident learner, a disciplined athlete, and a growing individual—all because the school and teachers see her as a whole person worthy of celebration and encouragement. That's the power of exceptional teaching.

(N/A) Academics

Read Write Think's academic program is fundamentally different from traditional schools. Rather than one-size-fits-all, the program is built on personalized learning paths that address each child's unique needs, learning style, and pace. Core academics—reading, writing, math—are taught with targeted interventions where needed, while practical life skills, project-based learning, and real-world application are integrated throughout. The program's greatest strength is its reading and literacy focus. For children struggling with reading confidence—like our daughter—the targeted, evidence-based approach is transformative. Within weeks, she moved from avoidance to genuine engagement. The entrepreneurship and practical business curriculum is exceptional. When students learn about money, economics, or math, they apply it immediately—creating products, pricing, marketing, and selling. This isn't theoretical; it's real-world learning that builds critical thinking and confidence simultaneously. The integration of character and behavioural development within academics is also exceptional. Academic skills and life skills develop together, creating well-rounded learners. The program's strength in personalized, smaller-scale learning means it may not have the breadth of advanced electives found in larger traditional schools. However, for foundational skill rebuilding and confidence development, this focused approach is ideal. The culture is fundamentally about growth and possibility. There's no sense of being "behind"—every child is on their own learning journey. Mistakes are normalized as part of learning. Risk-taking is encouraged. My daughter went from being afraid to raise her hand to actively participating because she feels safe trying and potentially failing. The atmosphere is collaborative, not competitive. Students support each other's learning and celebrate peer accomplishments. Read Write Think is preparing our daughter for whatever comes next—not just with academic content, but with foundational skills that matter: resilience, growth mindset, problem-solving, practical life skills, and genuine confidence in her abilities. Most importantly, our daughter now believes in herself as a learner. That confidence and growth mindset will carry her forward into her life's next steps far more than any specific curriculum.

(5) Extracurriculars

While Read Write Think is smaller than traditional schools, they understand that extracurricular opportunities are essential to developing well-rounded students. The offerings are thoughtfully curated rather than extensive—quality over quantity is their approach, and it works. The school provides opportunities that complement their academic philosophy: competitions, clubs, and activities that build confidence, teamwork, and skill development. They're intentional about how each opportunity supports the whole child. What impressed us is how the school balances competitive and recreational opportunities. Not every activity is about winning, and that's intentional. Some programs are purely for enjoyment and skill-building; others include competitive elements for students who thrive with that challenge. A great example is the spelling bee competition the school participates in. This offers students passionate about language and reading a real competitive outlet. My daughter was encouraged to participate, which gave her confidence in an area where she had previously struggled. The experience wasn't about winning—it was about showcasing growth and celebrating achievement. She learned resilience, preparation, and the satisfaction of challenging herself. What truly sets Read Write Think apart is how they celebrate achievements outside the school. My daughter pursues Taekwondo through an external program, where she earned her black belt. She's also achieved her Bronze Cross and CPR-C certifications—real credentials demonstrating commitment to skill mastery and community safety. Rather than viewing external activities as competition for time, the school actively celebrates these accomplishments. When my daughter earned her Bronze Cross and CPR-C certifications, the school recognized these achievements as seriously as academic milestones. They understand that excellence develops across many domains, and they affirm it wherever it happens. Read Write Think understands that well-rounded students need more than academics. They need to discover passions, experience success and healthy challenge, develop confidence across multiple areas, and learn teamwork, leadership, and resilience. The combination of in-school opportunities (like the spelling bee) and genuine support for outside activities creates an environment where students can explore, discover talents, and develop multiple facets of themselves. Our daughter is a reader, a student, a martial artist with advanced certifications, and someone learning life-saving skills. The school celebrates all of those identities equally. The extracurricular culture reinforces the school's core values—community, encouragement, and celebrating each child. When classmates achieve external certifications or compete in school competitions, peers cheer them on. That collective celebration makes every student feel valued. Our daughter is developing into a confident, well-rounded person—academically strong, physically accomplished, celebrated for her growth, and supported by a school that values all her dimensions. She's not just a student; she's becoming a capable, resilient young person with real skills and genuine confidence across multiple life areas. That's exactly what we hoped a good school would do.

(5) Students

Read Write Think's student body is intentionally small—this isn't a limitation; it's by design. The smaller size creates a genuine community where every student is known, seen, and valued. Teachers know not just your child's academic level, but their strengths, challenges, personality, and family. Administrators greet students by name. That personal connection matters enormously, especially for children rebuilding confidence. The feel is intimate without being cliquey. Because the school is smaller, there's less room for the social hierarchies and exclusion that often plague larger schools. Instead, there's a genuine sense of belonging for every child. What stands out most is the genuinely positive atmosphere. This isn't forced positivity or artificial cheerfulness—it's authentic. Students actually care about each other. They celebrate each other's achievements without jealousy or comparison. When a classmate succeeds—whether in the spelling bee, earns a martial arts achievement, or finally masters a challenging reading skill—other students genuinely cheer them on. The spirit is one of growth and encouragement. Every child is on their own learning journey, and that's celebrated. There's no sense of shame about struggling or needing support. In fact, asking for help is normalized and encouraged. Students see each other's challenges as normal parts of learning, not signs of failure. The atmosphere is also playful and joyful. School is enjoyed, not endured. Students look forward to attending. There's laughter, collaboration, and a sense of fun embedded in the learning experience. The most impressive thing about student interactions is their genuine kindness and support for one another. Students help each other without being prompted. They celebrate peer accomplishments authentically. They include classmates rather than exclude them. My daughter has made real friendships—not just school acquaintances, but genuine connections with peers who support her growth. The dynamic is collaborative, not competitive. Students work together on projects, share ideas, and build on each other's thinking. Rather than competing to be the "smartest," they collaborate to solve problems and create together. This creates an environment where every student can contribute meaningfully, regardless of their academic level. What impressed me most was witnessing how students from different grade levels and academic levels interact. There's cross-grade mentoring that happens naturally. Older or more confident students naturally support younger or struggling students. No one is made to feel "less than" for needing support. Instead, supporting peers is seen as a strength and a responsibility. The school actively cultivates this positive dynamic through their values and practices. Teachers model encouragement and celebration. The curriculum includes activities that build teamwork and social-emotional skills. School-wide events celebrate collective achievements rather than individual competitions. The result is a culture where students genuinely want their peers to succeed. My daughter has found a community where she belongs. She has friends who support her, peers who celebrate her growth, and classmates who value her unique strengths. She's learned that school is a place where people genuinely care about each other, where everyone is growing, and where your struggles don't define you—your effort and willingness to improve do. The student body spirit at Read Write Think is something you feel the moment you walk in. It's warm, inclusive, positive, and genuinely kind. That culture—more than any specific program—is what makes the school work. Students thrive because they feel part of a real community where they belong.

(5) School Life

The quality of student life at Read Write Think is exceptional. This isn't just a place where children attend school; it's a place where they thrive. The school has created an environment that prioritizes wellbeing, belonging, confidence, and genuine joy in learning—alongside academic growth. What matters most is that the school understands student life holistically. It's not just about academics or test scores. It's about whether students feel safe, valued, supported, and excited about learning. Read Write Think excels at all of these. My daughter, who two years ago was losing interest in school and dreading attendance, now genuinely loves going to school. She wakes up excited. She talks about her day. She looks forward to seeing her friends and teachers. She engages willingly in learning. That transformation from reluctance to enthusiasm is profound. She loves school because she feels genuinely known and valued. Teachers see her strengths and celebrate her growth. Peers support her rather than judge her. She experiences success and confidence in her learning—not because the work is easy, but because she's supported to meet appropriate challenges. She's part of a real community where she belongs. School is a place where she can be herself and grow. Most importantly, she's learned that learning is enjoyable and achievable. She doesn't see school as something to survive; she sees it as an opportunity to grow, connect, and succeed. That mindset shift is everything. If there's one area where the school could continue to evolve, it would be expanding certain specialized programs or partnerships—perhaps additional enrichment options in areas like STEM, arts, or specific advanced academic tracks for students ready for them. However, this is a minor consideration, and the school's current focus on personalized, holistic development is exactly what many students need. The school could also consider more formal communication or visibility about their programming and philosophy for prospective families—many parents don't fully understand how transformative the approach is until they experience it firsthand. Trust your instincts. If traditional school isn't working for your child—if they're losing confidence, avoiding learning, or withdrawing—that's your signal to explore other options. Don't wait, hoping things will improve on their own. We did, and it only got harder. Visit the school and experience the culture directly. No written description fully captures the atmosphere at Read Write Think. You feel it the moment you walk in—the warmth, the genuine care, the sense of community. Talk to current families. Observe classrooms. Let your child spend time there. You'll quickly sense whether this is the right fit. Understand the partnership model. Read Write Think works best when parents are actively engaged partners in their child's development. The school will guide you, but they also need your support at home. If you're willing to be involved and patient as your child transforms, the results are remarkable. Expect transformation to take time, but not as much as you might think. We saw significant changes in our daughter's confidence and engagement within the first month. By three months, the transformation was undeniable. However, deep, lasting confidence-building takes time. Trust the process. Recognize what truly matters in education. Read Write Think has taught me that test scores matter far less than whether your child loves learning, believes in themselves, and feels they belong. A school that develops those qualities has given your child something far more valuable than any standardized score. What Read Write Think has done for our family goes beyond academics. They've given our daughter back her confidence, her love of learning, and her sense of possibility about her future. They've shown her that she's capable, worthy of support, and part of a community that believes in her. That's the quality of student life they offer—not just a good school experience, but a transformative one that shapes how children see themselves and their potential. For prospective families considering Read Write Think: If your child is struggling in traditional settings, if they've lost confidence or joy in learning, if they need a place where they'll be truly known and genuinely supported—this is the school. The investment in your child's wellbeing and growth here pays dividends far beyond their school years. Our daughter is happier, more confident, and genuinely excited about learning and life. That's the true measure of a great school.

(5) Community

The parent community at Read Write Think is genuinely supportive and collaborative. What stands out is that parents aren't competing with each other—we're united by shared purpose. We celebrate each other's children, support one another, and reflect the school's core values. New families are welcomed warmly, and there's a real sense of belonging. Parents are absolutely welcome and encouraged to be involved. The school operates as a true partnership between home and school. Teachers communicate regularly, and the administration is accessible and values parent input. Involvement opportunities include classroom support, school events, feedback on programming, and community-building initiatives. When I've participated, it felt genuinely meaningful—not performative. The school could expand formal opportunities such as parent learning workshops on pedagogical approach and learning strategies, structured volunteer programs, and parent advisory committees. These aren't critical gaps, but they would deepen partnership and community bonds. Communication between school and parents is clear, regular, and two-way. Teachers update on progress; administration shares news and invites feedback. There's a genuine partnership feel, not hierarchy. Understand that Read Write Think operates as a partnership. The school cannot transform your child alone—they need your active engagement and support at home. But if you're willing to be involved and part of the community, the results are extraordinary. The parent community is warm, supportive, and genuinely invested in each other's success. Combined with exceptional teaching and a supportive student community, it creates the conditions for real transformation. You're not just enrolling your child; you're joining a community committed to children's wellbeing and growth.

(5) School Location

Read Write Think is located at 9500 Dufferin Street in Vaughan—a prime, accessible location that makes it convenient for families. The neighbourhood has a welcoming community feel with local businesses, parks, and family-friendly spaces. The school is well-integrated into its surroundings, not isolated. What stands out to students and families is the school's beautiful natural setting. The green trees and open spaces create an inviting, almost magical atmosphere. My daughter actually correlates it to Hogwarts because of the lush greenery and expansive grounds—there's something about the environment that makes learning feel special and inspiring rather than institutional. That physical beauty contributes meaningfully to the overall school experience. The school doesn't operate as an island. Students are encouraged to engage with the broader community and understand their role within it. Participation in community events like the spelling bee competition, volunteering opportunities, and developing practical skills (like my daughter's Bronze Cross and CPR-C certifications) all demonstrate real community contribution. Read Write Think feels like a genuine part of its Vaughan community with a uniquely welcoming physical environment. Students learn that education connects to community responsibility while enjoying a campus that makes learning feel inspiring and special. That combination of community integration and beautiful, nurturing space creates an environment where children genuinely thrive.

(5) Admissions

The admissions process at Read Write Think was collaborative and supportive, not stressful. The admissions officers genuinely wanted to understand our daughter's needs, challenges, and personality—not just her test scores or academic history. They asked thoughtful questions about her struggles, listened carefully, and worked with us to assess whether the school was the right fit. The process felt like a genuine partnership. They didn't make promises they couldn't keep or oversell the school. Instead, they were honest about their approach and how it might address our daughter's specific needs. That transparency was reassuring. The admissions team understood that placement decisions matter. They took time to learn about our daughter as a whole person. They explained their methodology and philosophy clearly. They answered our questions thoroughly. Most importantly, they treated us like partners in making this important decision—not like we were just checking boxes in an enrollment process. Be honest about your child's challenges. Don't hide struggles or paint a rosier picture than reality. The admissions team needs to understand what your child needs in order to determine if the school can help. Honesty allows them to make the best decision for your child. Ask questions. Visit the school, observe classrooms, talk to current families. Understand the school's philosophy, approach, and expectations for parental partnership. Make sure this school aligns with your values and your child's needs. Trust the process. If the admissions officers express concern about fit, listen to that feedback. They're experts in knowing which students thrive in their environment. Their goal is your child's success, not just enrollment numbers. Understand the partnership model. Be prepared to be actively involved in your child's education and development. Read Write Think works best when parents are committed partners. The admissions process is solid, but the school could provide more detailed information upfront about: Specific examples of the curriculum and approach in action Clear expectations for parental involvement and time commitment Testimonials from current families earlier in the process These would help prospective families make more informed decisions even before applying. The admissions process at Read Write Think set the tone for our entire experience. The collaborative, thoughtful approach signalled that this school genuinely cares about each child's success. That commitment to understanding and supporting individual students extends through everything they do. If you're considering applying, go in with honesty, ask good questions, and trust that the admissions team is working to ensure the best fit—for your child and the school. That partnership starts in admissions and continues throughout your child's time at Read Write Think.