Our History and Our Purpose
Autism Inspired Academy is a specialized autism school in Clearwater, Florida, created to support autistic students through individualized learning, supportive routines, and strong partnerships with families.
A Specialized Autism School Built From Listening to Families
Autism Inspired Academy began with a simple question.
What would school feel like if it truly met children where they are?
In 2017, that question led to a small summer camp in the Tampa Bay area, created by Cher Harris along with Phillip and Elizabeth Russell. The camp served eight autistic students and focused on safety, connection, and predictable routines. Families quickly shared that their children felt understood and supported in ways they had not experienced before.
That early feedback shaped everything that followed.
Autism Inspired Academy Founders
Cher Harris
Elizabeth Russell
Phillip Russell
2017 | The Beginning
What started as a summer camp became the foundation for a specialized school serving autistic students in Pinellas County.
From the beginning, the focus was clear:
- Small group learning
- Consistent, supportive routines
- Individualized academic and social support
- A school environment where students could feel safe and respected
Families asked for more consistency and a school setting built around their children’s needs.
2020 | Opening Our Autism School in Clearwater
In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Autism Inspired Academy took a courageous step forward.
In 2020, AIA opened as a full-time autism school in Clearwater, Florida, serving 28 students.
During a time of uncertainty for many families, the school committed to being a steady and supportive learning environment. The focus remained on:
- Academics designed around each student’s learning profile
- Social and emotional growth embedded throughout the school day
- Clear, consistent communication with families
- A calm, structured setting that supports regulation and learning
Growing With Our Students and Programs
As students grew, Autism Inspired Academy expanded its programs to meet their changing needs.
Over time, the school added:
- Elementary, middle, and high school programs for autistic students
- Hands-on learning opportunities connected to real life
- Vocational skill development through Shark Bites Café and Inspired Farming
- Extended care and summer programs that support working families across the Tampa Bay area
Each new program was shaped by student needs and family feedback, not by a one-size-fits-all model.
2024 | A New Campus in Pinellas County
In 2024, Autism Inspired Academy reached an important milestone in its growth.
Through a partnership with a local nonprofit school and financing from the Florida Community Loan Fund, AIA purchased a larger campus in Pinellas Park, Florida.
This expanded campus allows for:
- Additional classroom and learning spaces
- Expanded vocational and hands-on programs
- Continued growth while maintaining small, supportive learning environments
The move reflects AIA’s long-term commitment to serving autistic students and their families throughout Pinellas County and the greater Tampa Bay region.
2024–2025 | Now and Looking Ahead
Today, Autism Inspired Academy supports more than 100 students from Clearwater, Pinellas County, and surrounding communities.
Students are guided by experienced educators, predictable routines, and learning experiences that build confidence, communication, and independence. Families remain active partners, working closely with the school to support each child’s individual learning journey.
Looking ahead, AIA remains focused on:
- Supporting steady growth over time
- Building independence and life skills
- Creating meaningful academic and social learning experiences
- Honoring each student’s strengths, needs, and pace of development
Want to Learn More About Autism Inspired Academy?
Families often tell us that visiting campus helps them understand what makes AIA different.
If you are exploring autism schools in Clearwater or Pinellas County and would like to schedule a tour, we would love to connect.
Email: enrollment@autisminspired.org or use our contact form to connect with our team.
Our Story on Radio St. Pete
A Parent’s Perspective
Leelan Sala
Parent
I tried numerous schools with my autistic son and he hated everyone of them, Every day was a battle to get him out the door.Since starting autism inspired his speech and comprehension have increased so much he was able to go into a karate class without any special needs assistance. And the biggest plus is that my son loves the school and can’t get out the door fast enough. I’ve been able to converse with the teachers and administrative staff any time I’ve had questions or concerns. I really can’t say enough good things about the school.