How Genie Academy Helped 11-Year-Old Vihaan Unlock His Potential To South Plainfield’s Gifted & Talented Program

Meet Vihaan: The Ambitious Learner

Eleven-year-old Vihaan has always been an enthusiastic learner with big dreams. His parents, especially his father Chirag Shah, recognized Vihaan’s bright curiosity early on. However, after the pandemic disrupted traditional schooling, Vihaan struggled with focus. Public school pacing felt too slow for his inquisitive mind, and Chirag worried that Vihaan wasn’t being challenged enough to reach his full potential.

The Challenge: Finding the Right Support

Chirag’s goal wasn’t just for Vihaan to do “well” in class—he wanted to set his son up for long-term success. Chirag explains that he wants Vihaan to be prepared for advanced, competitive programs down the road, including a specialized Engineering High School Program in Piscataway. But standard public schooling, especially in the wake of COVID, wasn’t providing the rigorous environment Vihaan needed.

• Key Concern: Chirag felt that public education alone might not equip Vihaan with the deep conceptual understanding and focus needed for college-level challenges. 
• Immediate Goal: Strengthen Vihaan’s math and reading skills, bolster his confidence, and improve his focus so he could excel in school and beyond.

Meeting the Guide: Genie Academy

Chirag discovered Genie Academy, a place known for its interactive, challenging curriculum and supportive coaches. He enrolled Vihaan in two core programs:

1. Reading & Writing Program  
2. Common Core Math Program

Right away, Vihaan responded well to the more advanced material and the personal attention from Coach Mark.

What Changed?

- Increased Focus: Post-COVID, Vihaan was very dependent on screens. But at Genie Academy, he became more engaged and less distracted.  

- Heightened Confidence: Faced with challenging content, Vihaan rose to the occasion. He began to believe in his ability to tackle difficult problems and approach reading comprehension with more depth.  

- Clearer Concepts: Because Genie Academy teaches beyond the standard curriculum, Vihaan’s foundational skills in both math and English became sharper. This played a huge part in boosting his readiness for tests and advanced programs.

- Vihaan's Take: Vihaan explains what he likes about Coach Mark’s teaching by stating, “I think he is funny and helps me learn so fast.”

The Triumph: Acceptance into the Gifted & Talented Program

Before long, Vihaan was accepted into the Gifted & Talented (G&T) Program in his district at South Plainfield. This program required strong reasoning, problem-solving, and language skills—all areas that Vihaan had been cultivating at Genie Academy. With consistent practice and Coach Mark’s guidance, he aced the entrance requirements.Chirag notes that Vihaan is now more self-sufficient and confident in both math and reading. In fact, Vihaan sometimes jokingly says he doesn’t feel he “needs” class anymore—proof of how far he’s come! He also feels like he, “improved a lot better since I joined.” 

Beyond the Classroom: Sports, Faith, and Future Goals

Vihaan’s growth isn’t limited to academics: Tennis Enthusiast: He’s actively pursuing tennis, staying physically fit, and learning discipline through sports. Religious Classes: Twice a month, Vihaan dives deeper into his faith and is thriving there as well. Forward-Thinking: With an eye on a specialized engineering track in high school, Vihaan is already building the skills and mindset needed for future academic and career paths. Vihaan proudly states,  “Because of Genie, I feel like whenever I play chess, I understand what the other player is doing, and I can visualize easier.” That said, we see Vihaan’s chess career also taking off. 

Chirag’s Perspective: A Parent’s Gratitude

Chirag beams when talking about Vihaan’s accomplishments. He sees the direct link between Genie Academy’s challenging curriculum and Vihaan’s acceptance into the G&T program. In his words: “Vihaan is thriving at Genie Academy. If any of his friends are struggling, I’d definitely recommend Genie because it helps with real-life challenges, better focus, and confidence to prepare for high school.”Chirag’s vision is that Vihaan will continue to excel and eventually be placed in a Specialized Engineering Program. With Genie Academy’s ongoing support, Chirag believes that dream can become a reality.

What Does Vihaan Love Most About Genie Academy?

We caught a glimpse of Vihaan’s enthusiasm during classes and asked what one of his favorite memories are, he excitedly stated, “When I managed to get three weeks worth of class work done in one day!” His pride in this moment shows us how he enjoys his curriculum and Vihaan goes more in depth stating, “I like learning about math at Genie because it’s my favorite subject.” 

The Plan for Parents: How You Can Set Your Child Up for Success

Vihaan’s story shows the power of finding a nurturing, challenging learning environment. If you’re a parent concerned that your child isn’t getting enough academic stimulation or is struggling with post-pandemic focus issues, Genie Academy can be your ally.

1. Schedule an Assessment  

   - Discover your child’s current strengths and areas for growth.  

2. Enroll in the Right Program

   - Whether it’s math, reading, or a specialized curriculum, Genie Academy tailors lessons to challenge and inspire your child.  

3. Watch Them Thrive 

   - Like Vihaan, your child can gain newfound confidence, better focus, and improved academic performance.

Why Now Is the Best Time to Act

- Early Foundation: The skills your child develops in elementary and middle school set the stage for high school success and college readiness.  

- Momentum: Don’t let the post-pandemic learning lag become permanent. Address focus and engagement issues now.  

- Proven Results: Vihaan’s acceptance into a competitive G&T program showcases what’s possible with the right support.

Ready for Your Child’s Success Story?

Vihaan’s journey—from feeling under-challenged to thriving in a Gifted & Talented program—is proof that every child can unlock their unique talents with the right guidance.

Don’t wait for your child’s confidence or focus to wane further. Join Genie Academy today and see the transformation for yourself. Your child deserves the same opportunity to excel, just like Vihaan.

Click Here to Schedule a Free Assessment or call us at (848)800-4342

Let us help your child embrace challenges and reach new academic heights