Autism is a developmental disorder that challenges social interaction, communication, and behavior.
While there is no “cure” for autism, many treatments and therapies can help those with autism lead happy and prosperous lives.
A critical factor in the success of individuals with autism is receiving a quality education from a school that understands their unique needs.
Parents of children with autism often face a hard decision regarding schooling. Do they send their child to a traditional public school or a private school that specializes in educating children with autism?
Both choices have pros and cons, and ultimately, the decision comes down to what is best for your child.
If you are leaning towards a private school for your child with autism, this article will show you 10 of the best in the USA.
What Are Autism Schools?
There are many different types of schools that serve autistic students, each with its unique strengths and weaknesses. Finding the right school for your child’s needs is essential.
Some autism schools focus on teaching students academic skills, while others emphasize social and behavioral skills.
Some schools use a strict behavioral approach, while others use a more holistic approach that includes therapies like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).
The best way to find the right school for your child is to consult with experts and tour several schools. Be sure to ask lots of questions and get a feel for the environment and culture of each school.
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What Are The Requirements For Attending Autism Schools In the USA?
Aspirants must meet a few requirements to attend an autism school in the United States.
First and foremost, the student must have a diagnosis of autism from a qualified professional. This diagnosis must be recent, as most schools will not accept students with outdated diagnoses.
Additionally, most schools require that students complete an intake assessment to ensure that the school is the best fit for the student’s needs.
Some schools may also require that students meet specific academic or behavior standards to be accepted.
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How Much Are Autism Schools In the USA?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the cost of private schools for autism can vary widely depending on your child’s specific needs and the type of school you choose.
However, according to a recent report from the National Autism Association, the average cost of private autism schools in the United States is approximately $40,000 per year.
While this may seem like a large amount of money, it is important to remember that private autism schools often provide much more individualized attention and support than public schools.
In addition, many private schools offer a variety of therapies and services that can be very beneficial for children with autism, such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioral therapy.
If you are considering sending your child to a private autism school, it is important to do your research and find a school that best fits your child’s unique needs.
Be sure to ask about the cost of tuition and fees and any other associated costs, such as transportation, before making your final decision.
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How Long Are Autism Schools In the USA?
There is no one answer to this question as each autism school in the USA varies in length of stay.
However, most schools will offer programs that last from a few weeks to a few months.
Some schools may also offer longer-term programs that last up to a year or more. It is important to speak with each school directly to inquire about their program lengths and what type of program would best suit your child’s needs.
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What are the Best Private Schools For Autism in the USA?
Many private schools cater to children with autism in the United States.
Some of these schools may provide a more structured environment and curriculum than public schools, which can be beneficial for some students with autism.
Other private schools may have smaller class sizes and lower student-to-teacher ratios, which can also be helpful for children with autism.
Some of the best private schools for autism in the USA include:
1. Land Park Academy, Sacramento
Land Park Academy is a private school in Sacramento, California that specializes in educating students with autism.
The school was founded in 2002 by parents of children with autism, and its mission is to provide quality education to all students with autism in a safe and nurturing environment.
The National Autism Association and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges accredit Land Park Academy.
The school offers a variety of programs and services to meet the needs of its students, including an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for each student, speech and occupational therapy, behavioral support, and social skills training.
2. Carrie Brazer Center for Autism & Alternative Approaches, Inc., Miami
Carrie Brazer Center for Autism & Alternative Approaches, Inc. is a private school in Miami, Florida that specializes in educating students with autism and other developmental disabilities. They found the school in 2001 by Carrie Brazer, a mother of two children with autism.
The school provides a comprehensive educational program that includes special education, speech, and language therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioral intervention.
In addition to its academic program, the school also offers extracurricular activities such as art, music, and physical education.
The Florida Association of Private Schools for Exceptional Students (FAPSE accredits the Carrie Brazer Center for Autism). It is a National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET) member.
3. NewHope Academy, Niles
NewHope Academy is a private school for children with autism in Niles, Illinois. Dr. Stephen Shore, who is on the autism spectrum, founded the school in 2006.
NewHope Academy educates its students, from pre-kindergarten to high school.
The school prides itself on its individualized approach to each student’s needs. In the lower grades, class sizes are kept small (a maximum of eight students per class) to allow for more one-on-one attention.
This ensures that each child gets the necessary support and individualized instruction to thrive.
As well as academics, New Hope Academy also offers a variety of extracurricular activities and therapeutic services, all designed to help our students reach their full potential.
We believe that every child deserves a chance at success, and we are dedicated to helping our students achieve theirs.
4. Behavior Analysis Center for Autism (BACA), Fishers
BACA is a small, private school for students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Dr. Stephen Shore, who is on the autism spectrum, found it in 2006.
BACA uses applied behavior analysis (ABA) principles, an evidence-based approach to teaching and helping people with ASD.
The school has a low teacher-to-student ratio, and each student has an individualized education plan (IEP).
The curriculum is based on the Common Core State Standards, and they teach students using various techniques, including visual aids and hands-on learning.
BACA also offers several extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, and art. The school is located in Fishers, Indiana, and serves students across the state.
5. Heartspring, Wichita
Heartspring is a Wichita-based private school that specializes in educating children with autism.
The school provides a comprehensive education that includes communication, social skills, behavior management, and academics.
Heartspring also offers various extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art.
6. Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore
The Kennedy Krieger Institute in Baltimore, Maryland, is a world-renowned center for treating and researching disorders of the brain, spinal cord, and musculoskeletal system.
Kennedy Krieger provides a wide range of services for children and adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), including diagnostic evaluations, individualized treatment plans, therapies, educational programs, and support services.
The staff at Kennedy Krieger is dedicated to helping individuals with ASD reach their full potential.
The institute offers a variety of specialized programs and services designed to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Services are provided by a team of experts that includes psychiatrists, psychologists, neurologists, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and educators.
The Autism Center at Kennedy Krieger offers comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, individualized treatment plans, and a variety of therapies for children and adolescents with ASD. The center also provides educational programs for families and support services for caregivers.
The Recreational Therapy program at Kennedy Krieger provides leisure education and recreation activities for children with ASD.
The program helps participants develop social skills, communication skills, and physical fitness through play.
The Social Skills Training program at Kennedy Krieger teaches children with ASD how to interact effectively with others in various social situations.
The program focuses on developing friendship, conversation, teamwork, and coping skills.
7. May Center for Child Development Schools, Randolph
The May Center for Child Development Schools in Randolph, Massachusetts, are some of the best private schools for autism in the USA.
Most importantly, May Center is a nationally recognized leader in providing education and treatment services for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities.
The May Center’s schools offer a comprehensive curriculum that is individualized to meet the needs of each student.
The schools use a variety of evidence-based teaching strategies and therapies to help students develop skills in communication, social interaction, academics, behavior management, self-care, and life skills.
Students at the May Center’s Schools receive small group instruction and opportunities to participate in various extracurricular activities. The schools also offer support services for families, including parent training and counseling.
If you are looking for a private school for your child with ASD, the May Center for Child Development Schools should be at the top of your list.
8. Alpine Learning Group, Paramus
Alpine Learning Group is a private school in Paramus, New Jersey, that specializes in educating students with autism.
The school was founded in 2001 by Dr. Steven J. Edelson, a leading expert on autism and education.
Basically, the school provides a comprehensive education for its students, from early childhood through high school.
The curriculum meets the unique needs of each student and prepares them for success in higher education and beyond.
Alpine Learning Group has a highly trained staff of educators and therapists who work closely with each student to ensure their progress. The school also offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art.
The school is accredited by the New Jersey Association of Independent School (NJAIS) and the National Autism Association (NAA).
9. Autistic Services Inc., Williamsville
Autistic Services Inc. is a not-for-profit organization that provides educational and therapeutic services to children and young adults with an autism spectrum disorder in the Buffalo, New York area.
The organization was founded in 1992 by Dr. Janice Krezwick, a clinical psychologist and pioneer in the field of autism research and treatment.
Autistic Services Inc. offers a wide range of services to meet the needs of individuals with autism and their families.
These services include early intervention programs, educational programs, social skills training, expressive therapies, and support groups for parents and caregivers.
The organization also operates an accredited private school for children with autism, as well as a residential program for young adults with autism who are transitioning into adulthood.
Autistic Services Inc. is dedicated to providing high-quality, individualized services to meet the unique needs of each person with autism.
The organization’s commitment to excellence has earned it national recognition as one of the leading providers of services for people with an autism spectrum disorder.
10. Mariposa School for Children with Autism, Cary
The Mariposa School for Children with Autism is a private school in Cary, North Carolina.
They founded the school in 2002 and served students in grades K-12 diagnosed with autism.
Basically, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) accredits the Mariposa School and the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI).
The school’s curriculum is based on the premise that all students can learn. Through individualized instruction, small class sizes, and a highly structured learning environment, students at the Mariposa School can make significant progress in their academic and social skills.
Besides core academic subjects, the school also offers art, music, physical education, and life skills courses.
The Mariposa School has a staff of highly qualified educators dedicated to meeting each student’s unique needs.
Also, the school offers various support services, including speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling.
Families are actively involved in their child’s education at the Mariposa School, and there is an emphasis on communication between home and school.
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Are There Financial Aids For Autism Students In the USA?
A few financial aid options are available specifically for students with autism in the USA. The first is the Autism Scholarship Program, offered by the state of Ohio.
This program provides scholarships of up to $20,000 per year for students with autism to attend private schools specializing in educating students with autism.
A few private organizations also offer scholarships specifically for students with autism, such as the National Autism Association and the Autism Society of America.
Finally, many states have programs that provide vouchers or tax credits for families who send their children to private schools, including schools that specialize in educating students with autism.
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Frequently Asked Questions
There is no definitive answer to this question as each child on the autism spectrum is unique and, therefore, will have different educational needs.
That said, several excellent private schools specialize in educating children with autism.
Some of the best include The New England Center for Children, The Autism Academy of Learning, and The Ivy School.
To be eligible for admission to a private school for autism, your child must first be diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder by a licensed professional.
Once you have received this diagnosis, you can contact the school’s admissions office or schools you are interested in inquiring about their specific requirements and process.
The cost of tuition at a private school for autism can vary widely depending on the specific school and its location.
That said, many of these schools offer scholarships and financial aid options to families in need, so it is important to ask about these options when you are researching schools.
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Conclusion
We hope you’ve enjoyed our list of the ten best private schools for autism in the USA.
If you’re looking for a school that can provide your child with the individualized attention and support they need to thrive, any of these schools would be a great choice.
Do you have a personal favorite from our list? Let us know in the comments below!
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References
- Thebestschools.org– The Best Schools for Children with Autism
- Autismparentingmagazine.com– The best schools for autism in the USA and Worldwide
- Angelsense.com– Autism Schools in the USA
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