Making Academic Strides with ACE at The Woodlands Christian Academy

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- The Woodlands Christian Academy students and families who participate in ACE (Academic Center for Empowerment) gathered last month for the ACE Celebration Dinner. The program included sharing inspirational student success stories and a delicious Bar-B-Que dinner from Woodall's at this annual event.

Bridget Hughes, Director of ACE, kicked off the evening with introductions of the panel of Senior student speakers and the Lower (LS) & Middle School (MS) panelists who asked all the pertinent questions of the Seniors. Mrs. Hughes also acknowledged the amazing team of ACE educational therapists who walk alongside our students on their learning pathways.

The evening centered around the Seniors reflecting on their past to help give the younger students a clear perspective on what to look forward to and how to be better equipped to focus on the future. Mrs. Hughes opened the panel discussion with these pertinent quotes:

"To look backward for a while is to refresh the eye. To restore it and render it more fit for the prime function of looking forward."
Margaret Fearless Barber

"There is a time for everything, a season for every activity under the heavens."
Ecclesiastes 3:1

"Tonight, we are looking back as well as ever-present and forward to these students here," Mrs. Hughes surmised. "Reflection allows us to gain clarity, appreciation, and growth for what lies ahead.”

The exceptional panel of 2025 Seniors shared their future plans, including where they plan to attend college. They are heading to the University of Kansas, Texas A&M, LeTourneau University, Abilene Christian University, and Southwestern University. Each shared their excitement for moving forward and explained how ACE played a considerable role in helping to reach this key milestone.

The LS and MS students led the storytelling by asking questions and then getting some sage advice from our Seniors. Some of the responses included:

• "Since being in ACE, my confidence in my ability in myself has transformed tremendously." This Senior went on to be accepted into all the colleges to which she applied. "None of this would have ever been possible without extra time on tests and quizzes, the support system of the ACE therapists, and the support they put into every student.”

• "I've been in ACE since 2nd grade, and ACE prepared me for a future at the college I of my choice. Every student learns differently and tests in their own way. I need extra time to process what I read to understand what I will be tested on. ACE gives me the time and resources to succeed and understand the content I'm being tested on. ACE teaches us in a way that is unique to each of us with personalized support.”

•"One piece of advice I would give is about mindset when entering ACE. It isn't just about 'work, work, work,' but a support system. The people are here to help you and talk through things. They are a friend on campus, for sure. It's the basics and foundation of what you need help with to help you succeed academically. It's a place for help.”

The LS and MS students' eyes brightened as each of the Seniors answered their questions. And, looking around the room filled with parents, administration and faculty/staff, there was not a dry eye in the building. Everyone enjoyed celebrating the students' achievements together! Not only were these inspiring student success stories and experiences shared, but it was also a wonderful time of connecting with other ACE students, parents, teachers, and therapists.

TWCA’s Academic Center for Empowerment (ACE) Program helps students with average to above-average abilities overcome specific learning challenges. Through specialized programs developed by the National Institute for Learning Development (NILD), ACE fosters confidence and independence, preparing students for success in both school and life. TWCA's ACE program cares for students from Pre-K to 12th grade. The educational therapists come alongside families, developing relationships and caring for all aspects of these students.

“We aim for students to reach their full potential, knowing that each child is one of God's masterpieces,” Mrs. Hughes reflected. Students leave the program feeling competent and self-assured in their studies. Currently, the ACE department serves 131 students at TWCA with a dedicated team of 11 therapists, supporting both English and Spanish-speaking students.

For more information about the ACE program at TWCA, please feel free to contact Director of ACE Bridget Hughes at 936-273-2555, ext. 1304.

The Woodlands Christian Academy is an independent, Christ-centered college preparatory school that integrates learning with Biblical faith and spiritual growth, and challenges students to reach their highest potential – intellectually, creatively, physically and socially – for the glory of Jesus Christ. For more information visit twca.net.

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