On March 17, the Roberts Academy community gathered for a special afternoon of fellowship, appreciation, and celebration at the first-ever Roberts Family Picnic.
Faculty, staff, students, and parents came together to honor and thank our generous donors, Hal and Marjorie Roberts, whose vision and support have made Roberts Academy a beacon of hope for dyslexic learners in Middle Georgia.
We were also delighted to welcome distinguished guests from Mercer University, including Mercer President William D. Underwood; Dr. Tom Koballa, dean of the Tift College of Education; Dr. Sharon Augustine, associate dean; and John Patterson, Senior Vice President for University Advancement. Their presence underscored the strong partnership between Roberts Academy and Mercer University in advancing specialized education for students with dyslexia.
The picnic was filled with moments of joy and connection. Students performed the beloved tune Simple Gifts, a fitting tribute to the generosity and kindness that make our school possible. Adding to the musical celebration, students played their Panda Drums, a special gift from Mrs. Roberts.
One of the sweetest moments of the day was when everyone sang The Roberts Academy birthday song to Mrs. Roberts, who celebrated her birthday that week.
Beyond the performances, the picnic provided a wonderful opportunity for parents to share their personal stories and experiences with the Roberts, expressing how Roberts Academy has transformed their children’s education and confidence. These heartfelt conversations reinforced the deep impact of our mission and the importance of our supportive community.
As we wrapped up the afternoon, one sentiment was clear—this gathering was more than just a picnic; it was a celebration of shared purpose, gratitude, and the bright future ahead for our students.
We hope to make the Roberts Family Picnic an annual tradition, continuing to bring our community together in appreciation and joy.
Thank you to everyone who made this special day possible, and most of all, thank you to Hal and Marjorie Roberts for their unwavering support and dedication to our school. We look forward to many more celebrations to come!
Located in Macon, Georgia, Roberts Academy is Georgia’s only school for children with dyslexia outside of Metro Atlanta. The Academy uses the Orton-Gillingham Approach – an evidence-based way of teaching reading, writing, and spelling proven to work for students who face the learning challenges often associated with dyslexia.
Because all children who attend the Academy have a dyslexia diagnosis, students feel an instant sense of belonging. This sense of community, combined with academic success, quickly leads to improved confidence and self-esteem.
Students can attend the Academy until they have mastered the skills to accommodate their learning differences and are prepared to succeed in a traditional classroom setting. To learn more about Roberts Academy, schedule a tour or visit our website.
