Autism Academy School
Splashes, Scoops, and Smiles: How Our Annual Dunk Tank and Ice Cream Truck Made Our School Year Sweeter
The first few months of a new school year can feel like a lot — new classrooms, new faces, new routines, new teachers to meet and new expectations. For our students at the Tempe Campus, especially our teens who have autism, those early weeks carry an extra weight. That’s exactly why our Parent Partnership Program…
Read MoreTransition Fairs: Connecting Students and Families to Life After High School
The Transition Fair Season of 2026-27 Has Begun! Every year, transition fairs bring together students, families, and community resources at multiple campuses to answer one critical question: What happens after high school? For Denise Sanetra, Transition Specialist at Autism Academy, organizing these fairs across the four campuses that have high schools — Tempe, Gilbert, Glendale,…
Read MoreGoodies with Grandparents: The Event That Stole Our Hearts
Plot twist: It turns out that grandparents are basically superheroes. (We know, shocking!) Our school campuses recently hosted “Goodies with Grandparents” events for Grandparents Day, and wow, did the love in those rooms hit different. But here’s something we want to talk about—why these connections are especially amazing for grandchildren on the autism spectrum. Why…
Read MoreStudent Council Election Results: Tempe Campus Students Take the Stage
They wrote the speeches themselves. They made their own posters. Then they stood up in front of the whole high school and made their case. The Tempe Campus student council election wrapped up this month, and the process started long before anyone reached the podium. Back in August, students came to an information meeting, asked…
Read MoreCampuses Host Meet the Teacher Events to Launch 2026-2027 School Year
Meet the Teacher night is more than just a back-to-school ritual—it’s a powerful opportunity to set the tone for a successful school year. For our school community, where our students navigate the world through an autism spectrum lens, this event holds even deeper significance. Let’s meet some teachers at our North Phoenix Campus! Look at…
Read MoreBack-to-School Tips for Students with Autism: Creating a Smooth and Successful Transition
The start of a new school year brings excitement, opportunities, and new experiences. It can also bring uncertainty and anxiety, especially for students with autism who thrive on routine, predictability, and preparation. At Autism Academy for Education & Development (AAED), we know that a successful transition back to school starts long before the first bell…
Read MoreCelebrating Every Unique Journey: How the Autism Academy Elevates End-of-Year Traditions
As the school year draws to a close, there’s something magical happening at the Autism Academy for Education and Development (AAED) that sets it apart from any other educational institution. While students across the country are participating in typical end-of-year activities, AAED is redefining what it means to celebrate student achievements in ways that honor…
Read MoreMore Than Medals: Our Meaningful Partnership with Special Olympics of Arizona
At Autism Academy of Education and Development, we believe every student deserves a chance to shine, experience achievement, and connect with others. Our partnership with Special Olympics of Arizona is a cornerstone of this belief, offering our students opportunities for friendship, personal growth, and valuable life lessons. Mr. Derrick Jamerson, District Administrator and Special Olympics…
Read MoreMoving For a Cause. How Walking to Fundraise Became a Fantastic Tool
Walking to fundraise has emerged as a dynamic and community-centered way to raise funds for various causes, including raising awareness for autism. Encompassing everything from large, organized events to smaller, grassroots gatherings, walks are not only effective in generating donations but also in fostering community spirit and awareness. So, why exactly are walks and walking…
Read MoreEssential Oils for Autism: A Natural, Gentle Approach
While there is an increasing number of essential oils aimed at actually improving mental and physical health — thieves oil, for example, is an antimicrobial, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-parasitic that can be placed in a diffuser, helping individuals who are sick with the flu — perhaps one of the most interesting developments has been an…
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