The Academy
Educational Programs formed by Florida Standards and Florida Standard Access Points.
Our Mission is to empower children with autism to have lives of meaning, purpose and joy.
There's No One Way to Learn
This unique school for children with autism creates an environment where character development and social skills are at the forefront of education. Students are consistently held to high expectations that align with their abilities and where learning is purposeful and meaningful. We create and embrace positive relationships with students, families, communities and therapeutic support staff to ensure success for all students.
Our educators begin by learning about and connecting with students and observing their specific development needs. Students’ social development will encompass every aspect of the teacher’s practice including academics, social thinking, emotional wellbeing, independent functioning and communication. Our educators lay a strong social and behavioral foundation, practicing a pedagogy that helps students navigate real-life situations and prepares them for a future of meaning, purpose and joy.
Our curriculum is specifically designed for students in Exceptional Student Education. Hands-on activities emphasize experiential learning, and our evidence-based academic programs include:
- Reading Horizons
- Reading Units of Study
- Math U See
- Touch Math
- Handwriting/ Keyboarding Without Tears
- Writing and Beyond/Thinking Maps
- Unique Learning Systems
- Social Thinking and Me
- Zones of Regulation
- Social Detective
- Think Social!
- Character Counts
Our Services
Beyond academics, we offer supportive and therapeutic services to help our children thrive. Those services include:
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) & Occupational Therapy
We partner with local clinics to provide Occupational Therapy and Applied Behavioral Analysis services in the classroom, at a local clinic or at home (depending on student needs/eligibility determined by a clinic, pediatrician or insurance). Therapists are supervised by Board Certified Behavior Analysts and work with students to meet their specific needs.
Speech, Language and Communication Therapy
Autism Inspired students with speech, language and communication disorders who qualify for extended services will have access to a full range of diagnostic testing and therapy through our qualified therapist. These therapists work directly with Autism Inspired Academy students at no additional cost, allowing them to continue their growth and learning.
Extended Day (Before & After-School) Program
Autism Inspired Academy offers therapeutic before and after-school programs tailored to students' individual needs. These programs enhance social thinking and development. Students engage in facilitated social activities, hands-on sensory projects and STEM-based learning while continuing the structure and consistency they get at school. Space is limited, reserve your spot now!
All employees and administrators have an obligation to report misconduct by instructional personnel and school administrators which affects the health, safety, or welfare of a student. Examples of misconduct include obscene language, drug and alcohol use, disparaging comments, prejudice or bigotry, sexual innuendo, cheating or testing violations, physical aggression, and accepting or offering favors. Reports of misconduct of employees should be made to Cher Harris and/or Elizabeth Russell. Reports of misconduct committed by administrators should be made to the board chair, Craig Phillips. Legally sufficient allegations of misconduct by Florida certified educators will be reported to the Office of Professional Practices Services. Policies and procedures for reporting misconduct by instructional personnel or school administrators which affects the health, safety, or welfare of a student are posted in the employee handbook and the ethical standards document and on our website at www.autisminspired.org
Our environment is meaningful and purposeful to meet the learning needs of all students. Low teacher-student ratios allow for small group and individualized instruction, along with focused learning opportunities. Muted lighting, alternative seating options and limited visual distractions are just a few ways we maintain a flexible space where students feel comfortable and safe, so they can focus on learning.
If you are interested in learning more about enrollment for the Academic Year, please send us some information so that we can best serve your child and needs.