ABOUT US
Built by Parents. Guided by Experience. Inspired by Possibility.
Waterfall Academy was created by parents who understood the need for a school where children with learning differences could be seen, supported and given meaningful opportunities to grow.
Who We Are
Waterfall Academy is a nonprofit private school in Richardson, Texas, serving students with autism, learning differences, and unique learning needs.
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Founded in 2018, we provide individualized, functional education in a small, supportive, family-like environment designed for students who need a more personalized and understanding educational setting.
"We deliver functional education that is customized to the brilliance of each child while supporting families on the path to greatness."
Nonprofit Private School
Richardson, TX
Founded 2018
Cognia Accredited
OUR FOUNDER STORY
Angel & Connie Rodriguez
Waterfall Academy was founded in 2018 by Angel and Connie Rodriguez, inspired by their lived experience raising two sons on the autism spectrum. Their family's own search for an educational environment that truly understood their children's strengths, needs, and potential became the foundation for Waterfall Academy.
When they could not find exactly what their children needed, they set out to create it.
"That lived experience still shapes Waterfall today - from our small, supportive classrooms and individualized learning to functional academics, life preparation, and partnerships with families."
Angel & Connie Rodriguez, Founders
Our Journey
THE FAMILY JOURNEY
As parents of two sons on the autism spectrum, Angel and Connie Rodriguez experienced firsthand the search for a school that truly understood their children.
THE NEED
When they could not find exactly what their children needed, they recognized a gap that many families face - quality individualized education for students with learning differences.
THE CALLING
That recognition became a calling. The Rodriguez family felt called to create the school they wished existed for their own children.
THE COMMUNITY TODAY
Today, Waterfall Academy serves students with learning differences through individualized, functional education designed around each child's unique experience.
2018 - One Classroom
Waterfall Academy was founded with one student and one classroom, built on a foundation of faith, experience and unwavering commitment.
Mission & Vision
OUR MISSION
"We deliver functional education that is customized to the brilliance of each child while supporting families on the path to greatness."
"To empower students to lead meaningful lives rooted in purpose, belonging, and confidence while strengthening families and communities through understanding, compassion, and shared growth."
OUR VISION
Our Values
DIGNITY
Every student deserves to be treated with respect, care, and honor every single day.
BELONGING
A community where every child is seen, accepted, and valued as a full member.
PURPOSE
Every student has a purpose. We help them discover and pursue it with confidence.
POTENTIAL
We believe every child can learn, grow, and thrive — on their own terms and timeline.
COMPASSION
Understanding and empathy guide every interaction, decision, and relationship at Waterfall.
FAMILY PARTNERSHIP
Families and educators working together as one unified team for each child.
Cognia Accredited
Waterfall Academy is Cognia Accredited, a global recognition of our commitment to quality education, student growth, safety and continuous improvement. Most importantly, it reflects our dedication to creating a school where every child is seen, supported, and given room to grow.
A TEFA School
Waterfall Academy is a TEFA school, helping eligible families access more educational options for their child. We believe parents should have the opportunity to choose a learning environment where their child is understood, supported, and encouraged to thrive.
What Our Community Says
"Waterfall feels like a big family. My child finally feels safe and understood at school."
Parent
"I feel safe, accepted, and supported here. I have friends and I like coming to school."
Student
"Every child is seen, known, and supported. This is exactly the school I always wanted to teach in."