A year of progress, new beginnings, and deeper belonging.
Cher Harris, Head of School
Letter from Leadership
This year at Autism Inspired Academy has been one of meaningful growth, deeper community connection, and powerful student progress. Each day, we watched students take steady steps toward confidence, communication, and independence. We saw friendships take root, new skills blossom, and classrooms become spaces where students could breathe, settle, and thrive.
Our move to the new campus created more room for sensory aware learning, therapy partnerships, outdoor exploration, and hands-on experiences. Inspired Farming took off in ways that exceeded all expectations. Shark Bites Café reopened in our new building and became a bright hub for vocational learning. Our students showed us again and again that when a child feels understood, progress follows.
We are grateful for our families, our educators, our therapists, our volunteers, and our donors. Your belief in our mission helps build a school where autistic students can learn in ways that feel natural, safe, and joyful.
Thank you for standing beside our students and for helping us rewrite possible every single day.
Our Mission
Empowering children with autism to have lives of meaning, purpose, and joy.
Our Vision
To provide a sanctuary where individuals with autism, their families, and educators can grow and thrive together.
Our Why
Students with autism deserve the right environment, the right support, and individualized learning opportunities that build on their strengths and lead to meaningful, successful futures.
Year in Review
Strengthening Our Foundation for Student Success
With 110 students and 36 staff members, the 2024–2025 school year reflected AIA’s ongoing commitment to individualized education, emotional regulation, and real-world skill development. Our team worked together to create an environment where students could grow at their own pace and experience meaningful progress.
Impact at a Glance - Academics and Independence
75%
Improved reading and math percentile scores
82%
Made progress on independence and daily living goals
70%
Advanced in reading percentile ranking
77%
Advanced in math percentile ranking
43
Received on-site speech and language services
110
Students enrolled across K-12
Impact at a Glance - Community and Growth
89
Volunteers supported AIA across eight events
9
Eighth graders continuing into high school pathways
19
Therapy partners provided consistent support to students
17
K-1 students moving up in their learning journey
School Milestones
Campus and Beyond
Our Programs
Academics
Individualized instruction, sensory aware classrooms, and small groups that help students build communication, literacy, and math skills at a comfortable pace.
Therapies and Supports
On-site collaboration with ABA, speech, language, and occupational therapy providers to support regulation, communication, and social connection.
Life Skills and Independence
Daily living skills, problem solving, and routines that prepare students for greater confidence and autonomy.
Social and Emotional Learning
Calm spaces, emotional regulation tools, and supportive staff who help students navigate feelings and friendships.
Enrichment
Gardening, art, clubs, and outdoor learning.
Community Integration
Service projects, vocational experiences, field trips, and real-world learning opportunities.
Our Pathways
Every learner grows differently. Our pathways honor that.
Pathway 1 - Standard Diploma | Communication, Academics, Regulation, Independence
A calm, supportive classroom where students focus on:
- Communication and social skills
- Reading, writing, and math growth
- Emotional regulation and sensory support
- Daily living and independence skills
Pathway 1 helps students build confidence step by step in a structured, nurturing environment.
Pathway 2 - Standard Diploma on Access Points Workforce Readiness, Life Skills, Community Learning
A hands-on, real-world pathway where students focus on:
- Job skills through Shark Bites Café and on-campus roles
- Money management, time management, and teamwork
- Life skills, organization, and problem solving
- Community experiences that prepare them for adulthood
Pathway 2 helps students practice the skills they need for life beyond the classroom.
Shark Bites Cafe
What Students Do
Serve customers, run the register, restock items, and practice independent shopping.
How It Helps Now
Supports communication, money handling, time management, and teamwork.
How It Shapes Their Future
Builds workplace readiness, confidence, and real-world independence.
Learn more about Shark Bites here.
Inspired Farming
What Students Do
Care for chickens and gardens, collect eggs, and learn about life cycles outdoors.
How It Helps Now
Supports sensory regulation, builds responsibility, and nurtures teamwork.
How It Shapes Their Future
Develops science skills, stewardship, confidence, and connection with nature.
Learn more about Inspired Farming here.
Stories of Growth & Impact
Finding Belonging
D.G.’s child once struggled with frustration and disconnection. At AIA, that changed. With individualized strategies and a caring team, he found a place where he felt understood, capable, and safe.
"This school has been essential for my child … he has soared academically and has developed friendships within the school. His teachers have given him the support he needs to be a successful student."
- D.G. (AIA Parent)
More Than Just a Student
Phillip’s son struggled in settings that were not designed for him. At AIA, he is known, supported, and celebrated.
“My son is blessed to attend this amazing school. The curriculum and teachers all give him the best chance at having a life of meaning, purpose, and joy – the school’s mission!”
- Phillip R. (AIA Parent)
A Life Changed
Jennifer’s nonverbal son experienced crisis in previous environments. At AIA, mornings became calmer, communication increased, and joy returned.
“AIA has changed my family’s life. He became more confident, more independent, and communicated more than we have ever experienced.”
- Jennifer W. (AIA Parent)
Foundational Partner Highlight
Source One Solutions played a critical role in preparing Autism Inspired Academy’s new campus for the 2024–2025 school year. Robert Hessel, Source 1 Solutions CEO, generously donated all labor required to install our internet systems, technology infrastructure, and campus-wide safety equipment, ensuring that students and staff could enter a fully connected, secure learning environment on day one.
Their contribution represents far more than technical support. It created the foundation that powers communication, instruction, therapy integration, student safety, and daily operations across the school. By taking on this work at no cost, Source One Solutions saved AIA significant resources and accelerated our ability to open the new campus on schedule.
We are deeply grateful for their partnership, professionalism, and exceptional commitment to our mission. Their dedication ensures that every student has access to a safe, reliable, and supportive environment where learning can flourish.
AIA proudly recognizes Source One Solutions for their leadership, generosity, and long-term commitment to our students.
In-Kind Contribution
Installation and configuration of:
Network configuration and wiring
Classroom technology setup
Safety and security system integration
Remote Access
Impact
Enabled seamless campus opening
Reduced operational costs during transition
Strengthened student and staff safety
Supported long-term campus infrastructure
Community Partners
We are grateful for the organizations and professionals who strengthened AIA through collaboration, service, and shared commitment to our students. Their contributions supported campus improvements, enrichment activities, safety measures, and daily operations throughout the 2024–2025 school year.
- Keys to Kindness
- We Rock the Spectrum
- Keep Pinellas Beautiful
- Tampa Bay Watch Estuary Program
- Freedom Sailing Camp
- Custom Concepts
- Florida Sheriff Youth Ranch
- Pinellas County Schools
- Lightning Foundation
- Florida Community Loan Fund
- Older, Lundy, Koch & Martino
Trusted Vendors & Contractors
These partners provided reliable service, expertise, and infrastructure support that helped keep AIA safe, functional, and prepared for growth.
- Modern Photography Group
- Extreme Florida Roofing
- David Nelson Construction
- Anchor Air
- My Paper Pusher
- Work Comp Solutions
- Rivero, Gordimer & Company
- Z7 Solutions
- Colen & Wagoner, P.A.
- SouthState Bank
Each collaboration, from professional services to campus improvements to community-based learning experiences, played a meaningful role in supporting the growth, confidence, and well-being of our students.
Grants & Funding Support - Where Partnership Meets Purpose
Grant funding played a key role in strengthening AIA’s programs, campus operations, and long-term growth initiatives during the 2024–2025 school year.
The Drexel Fund
Autism Inspired Academy was awarded a $100,000 multi-year grant to support school growth, sustainability, and program development.
$30,000 of this award was received during the 2024–2025 school year.
Community Hero Lighting Award
AIA received a $50,000 award supporting campus improvements, safety, and student programming.
The individuals, organizations, and funders who stand with AIA make meaningful learning possible. Their generosity ensures students have access to safe environments, individualized instruction, and opportunities that support confidence, independence, and joy.
Financial Overview
How Funds Were Used (2024–2025 Fiscal Year)
Autism Inspired Academy continues to direct the vast majority of its resources toward programs that directly support students, classrooms, therapies, and learning environments.
Program Services (93%)
Supports instruction, therapies, sensory-aware environments, enrichment, and student programs.
Management & General (5%)
Administrative operations, compliance, accounting, insurance, and campus operations.
Fundraising (2%)
Events, donor communications, and development activities that sustain long-term mission growth.
Every dollar invested in Autism Inspired Academy helps create individualized learning environments, expand therapies, strengthen student programs, and maintain a safe, connected campus.
Revenue Sources (2024-2025 Fiscal Year)
Total Revenue: $2,520,786
Breakdown:
- Contributions and Grants: $154,420
- Program Service Revenue: $2,237,681 ($1,758,202 FES-UA Scholarship Funding)
- Other Revenue: $6,956
Additional Funding Highlights (2024–2025 School Year)
- $30,000 received from a $100,000 multi-year grant awarded by The Drexel Fund
- $50,000 Community Hero Lighting Award supporting campus and safety enhancements
- $50,923 raised through fundraising events
- Additional support from community partners and donors
Financial Transparency
Autism Inspired Academy uses audited financial data reported in its IRS Form 990 to provide a clear view of financial stewardship.
2024–2025 Form 990 Summary:
• Total Revenue: $2,520,786
• Total Expenses: $2,349,142
• Net Assets (End of Year): $6,080,883
• Change in Net Assets: +$359,752
Full IRS Form 990 is available upon request.
Donor Recognition
With Gratitude to Our Supporters
The generosity of our donors makes it possible for Autism Inspired Academy to provide calm, individualized learning environments and meaningful opportunities for autistic students. The following individuals, families, foundations, and organizations contributed $2,500 or more in support of AIA. We are deeply grateful for their partnership and belief in our mission.
Empowerment Partners
$10,000 & above
Debra & Daniel Family Foundation
Phillip & Liz Russell
Johnson and Johnson Inc. DBA Busy Bee
Woodruff & Sons
The de Moya Group
Ajax Paving Industries of Florida
Floridays Investments, LLC
Peter & Paula Vosotas
Spectrum Supporters
$5,000 & above
Park & Eleazer Construction
The Frezandos Masius Rieger Foundation
Matthew Gordon
WorkComp Solutions
Ranger Construction
Ogletree Deakins
All Phase Electric and Maintenance
Doyle Electric
Southeastern Rail Services
Creative Contractors
Continental National
APG
Bay Area Metro, LLC United Taxi
Maylor Foundation Contractors
Elisa’s Greatest Wishes
Brian & Amanda Van Slyke
Cone & Graham
Inspiration Allies
$2,500 & above
Dante & Lindsey Skourellos
Mary & Bob Family Foundation
David Nelson Construction
GFWC North Pinellas Woman’s Club
Southeastern Construction
Donations are Changing Lives for Students and Families in Our Community
Autism Inspired Academy relies on the partnership of families, donors, businesses, and community members to sustain and grow our programs. Financial gifts, in-kind support, and volunteer time all help create calm, individualized learning environments where autistic students can build confidence, independence, and meaningful skills for life. Your support strengthens our capacity to serve more students, expand therapies and programs, and invest in the long-term stability of our school.
Give
Support therapies, programs, enrichment, and classroom experiences.
Donate here: https://autisminspired.org/donate
Capital Campaign
Help build AIA’s long-term sensory-safe home with expanded classrooms and learning spaces.
Explore our Rise Up Capital Campaign here: https://autisminspired.org/donate
Volunteer
Share your time at school events, programs, and community activities.
Explore volunteering at AIA here: https://autisminspired.org/volunteer
Corporate Parternships
Strengthen inclusive opportunities for students and help expand workforce-ready programs like Shark Bites Café.
Contact us to learn about corporate sponsorships: https://autisminspired.org/contact/
Leadership Team - Board of Directors
Craig Phillips, Board Chair
Client 1st Advisory Group
Andy Arner, Vice Chairman
Jaime Girgenti, Secretary
Older, Lundy, Koch & Martino
Debbie Murphy, Treasurer
KD Financial Services Group LLC
Elizabeth Russell
Autism Inspired, Inc.
Heather Strassel
CitrusAd
Charles Vanover
University of South Florida
Phillip B. Russell
Ogletree Deakins
Staff Leadership
Cher Harris
Head of School/Co-founder
Elizabeth Russell
Director of Growth & Development/Co-founder
Alexandra Cabrera
Assistant Principal
Jana Johnson
Development Coordinator
Help Us Rewrite Possible for Autistic Students
Every child deserves a school designed for how they learn, communicate, and experience the world. Your support helps create calm classrooms, joyful moments, meaningful progress, and opportunities that last a lifetime.
A future filled with confidence, belonging, and possibility becomes real when our community invests in students who learn differently and grow beautifully.
