FAQs

• Gifted and talented, 2e, high-ability, high-potential students are a neurodiverse population that process information and perceive the world in different ways. These individuals demonstrate or have the potential to demonstrate outstanding levels of aptitude or competence in one or more areas. With big thoughts and big feelings, they require specialized education- enrichment, personalization, and acceleration, yet they are often overlooked or underserved in schools based on a lack of information surrounding their distinct nature and needs. Proper identification, interventions, programming, and support are necessary for them to fully embrace their gifts and talents and become well-rounded global citizens and future leaders.

• Children ages 5-13 (who can enroll in K-8th grades in August 2025). 

• Journeys serves both high-ability and high-potential learners. GT testing is encouraged but not required to help gain a comprehensive understanding of a potential Pathfinder. Families must carefully consider the needs of their child(ren) and fully commit to/understand the model, mission, and vision to determine if the school is the right fit. Journeys Pathfinders are kind, curious, and creative learners who are advanced in one or more areas and thrive in an enriching environment where they get to use positive voice and choice. 

• Children will embark on a learning journey that opens doors to extraordinary opportunities and allows them to explore their passions, hone their skills, and find their purpose. Their educational pathway will include a “roadmap” with proper support, resources, and content. This is not a standard educational model, but an in-depth and transformative journey into an individual’s overall happiness and success. "Know and grow-onward and upward!"🌱

• Independent school model offers greater autonomy and flexibility in planning and initiatives 

• Biophilic design-appreciation of nature, nurture, and organic growth

• Ongoing opportunities for reflection and improvement 

• Engagement in personalized, experiential, hands-on, project-based, and outdoor learning

• Cohorts with an educator and assistant in each classroom

• Collaborative, technology, independent, and creative spaces

• Special Programming- STEM, Foreign Languages, Art, Theatre Arts, Music, Health & Wellness, Global Studies, and Film & Media

• Extracurricular clubs and athletic offerings based on learners' interests

• Tuition for the 2025-2026 school year is $15,000.00. Journeys understands the needs of families and their desire for an alternative education model and accepts both the North Carolina Opportunity Scholarship and North Carolina ESA+ Scholarship. Additionally, Journeys offers in-house financial aid, discounts for siblings and re-enrollment/early enrollment, and flexible payment plans to those who qualify. For more information regarding tuition, email Journeys' CFO at accounting@journeysGT.org. 

• Mrs. Hudak taught gifted individuals and was intrigued by their unique ideas and ways to problem solve. Their critical thinking abilities and precocious nature made diving into content meaningful and comprehensive, and inspired her to do more and be more. After seeing struggles and disparities, she became a passionate advocate of this population and supported educators, specialists, and families in the gifted community to close gaps, motivate students, and help them reach their full potential. Hudak thought, “These are our dreamers and doers, our change makers and future leaders- how can we let them slip through the cracks?" Through years of research, experience, networking, and careful consideration, she developed Journeys with the intent to create a unique learning environment that gives each child the tools and resources needed to be themselves, pursue their passions, and become productive and informed citizens. Mrs. Hudak believes that giftedness is a valuable superpower useful in advancing society; those who think outside the box can offer broader and better solutions to the challenges our ever-changing world faces.

• Admissions at Journeys is a two-part process and involves: 1) taking a deep dive into your child's strengths, interests, areas for improvement, and learning styles, and 2) determining if the school is the right fit for their and your family's needs. We prioritize community and building a dedicated support team around each child to move them forward. We welcome all families seeking holistic support and outside-the-box education for their advanced learner(s). If a family decides to pursue enrollment, a $500 deposit is required to reserve their child's spot in the school.  

POLICY NOTICE: It is the policy of Journeys School for the Gifted and Talented to enroll children without discrimination of race, color, nationality, sexual orientation, religion, ancestry, or physical handicap. Journeys School for the Gifted and Talented is open to all families and seeks to create a sustainable learning environment with a diverse population, equitable practices, and inclusive culture. 

• The school operates Mondays- Fridays from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM follows a 180-day schedule.