For parents Heather and Jarred Mattox and their daughter, Carson, navigating the challenges of dyslexia was a daily struggle. Carson, a perfectionist by nature, battled a learning difference that left her feeling anxious and overwhelmed.
Despite her parents’ constant reassurance and the support of her teachers, Carson’s anxiety continued to grow, affecting not only her schoolwork but also her life at home.
“Having a child who is a perfectionist but struggles with dyslexia is the perfect combination for disaster,” Heather said. “We spent many mornings and evenings pumping her with positive affirmations and reminding her that as long as she gave it her best shot, we were proud of her no matter what. But the anxiety was still there, and it was affecting every part of her life.”
Today, learn more about Carson’s journey and how her parents’ made the decision to enroll her at Roberts Academy at Mercer University.
Heather first heard about Roberts Academy from friends and colleagues, but she hesitated to pursue the idea. She worried that uprooting Carson, especially for just one year in fifth grade, would be too much for their already anxiety-prone daughter.
[Reader’s note: Roberts Academy will offer a 6th grade beginning with the 2025-26 school year.]
“I knew with her anxiety that changing schools would be hard,” Heather said. “But one day, I mentioned Roberts Academy in passing to a colleague, and she encouraged me to take a closer look. Then, our tutor reached out and brought it up, too. I realized it wasn’t a coincidence and decided to start the admissions process. I took a leap of faith.”
Heather was drawn to Roberts Academy’s unique approach to teaching students with dyslexia. “As an occupational therapy practitioner, the multisensory approach immediately caught my attention,” she said. “I know the importance of tying in vestibular, proprioception, and other sensory activities to prepare the body for learning. What stood out even more was the Academy’s philosophy: the time is now. Public schools often operate on a ‘wait, they’ll catch up’ mindset, but some kids need the right intervention right now.”
Related: 5 Facts You Should Know About Roberts Academy at Mercer University
Heather said that from the moment Carson started at Roberts Academy, the changes were remarkable. She began to embrace her unique learning style, replacing anxiety with confidence and curiosity.
“Her confidence has blossomed,” Heather said. “She now knows she isn’t dumb—she just learns differently. It’s okay to make mistakes. She no longer cries every morning or evening or stresses for weeks about testing. Her anxiety level is so much lower.”
One of Heather’s proudest moments came when Carson stood up to read a speech about her experiences during a school dedication event. “Watching her deliver that speech, knowing she felt confident enough to stand in front of all those people without the slightest bit of anxiety, was huge. It’s a moment I’ll cherish forever,” Heather shared.
Roberts Academy’s impact has extended beyond Carson. Heather described the community as a lifeline for their family. “We’ve made friends who truly understand what we’re facing,” she said. “The stress we used to feel from Carson’s anxiety has diminished.”
Carson’s academic and personal growth has been transformative. “Her confidence, her lack of anxiousness, and her excitement about learning have been incredible to see,” Heather said.
Heather encourages other families to consider Roberts Academy for their child. “Your child was given a superpower; they just need the right key to unlock it,” she said. “If they had a gift to be a star musician or athlete, you’d invest in the best lessons and support. Why wouldn’t you do the same for their education? Give them the school experience that will help them grow into the amazing, creative thinkers they were meant to be.”
Heather summed up her family’s experience with gratitude: “We are so thankful for a place specifically designed for children with dyslexia. Roberts Academy meets kids where they are and gives them the tools to lead the race now. Don’t wait for them to catch up—give them the key they need to thrive.”
Located in Macon, Georgia, Roberts Academy provides a specialized learning environment for dyslexic students and currently serves 33 families from 11 Georgia counties.
With its commitment to individualized education and its affordability compared to similar programs in the state, Roberts Academy offers hope to families seeking the best for their dyslexic child.
Roberts Academy is accepting applications for the 2025-2026 academic year. Learn more on our website, or schedule your campus tour today!
Discover Roberts Academy at Mercer University in Macon, Georgia!