The Autism Academy for Education and Development believes that every child is exceptional. Since 2013, we have been providing specialized education for children with autism in all stages of the K-12 program. Our focus has always been on individual attention and instruction, maintaining an exceptionally low teacher-to-student ratio to make the most out of individualized…

Our Students’ Safety Comes First Student safety has always been an essential part of a school’s climate. Creating a safe learning space for every student is essential, whether they are traditional students or those with special needs. Autistic kids have a distinct set of behaviors and qualities that require a safe and supportive learning environment.…

Online Courses for Autism Education Online learning has shown significant growth in recent years, becoming a secondary option in education. Traditional schools have already incorporated online classes to support continued learning, despite recent constraints. While traditional online classes may offer support to typical students, they’re not for everyone. Those with special needs, particularly children with…

Why the Autism Academy for Education and Development? School is an important part of every child’s development, especially those with ASD. Schools provide the building blocks for growth and equip the right skills necessary to tackle life both inside and outside the classroom. While a good number of autistic kids attend public schools, being in…

By Laura Newcomb Email: LNewcomb@aaed.org I have tears in my eyes. I’m sitting at my computer defining “Best Practices” for educating children with autism online. I know we’ll be back together again in our school buildings soon, but I am overwhelmed by the messages of concerned parents and staff – my heart is overflowing with…

Bryce Blog Post: A day in the Life of a Student at Autism Academy One of our very own AAED student’s has written a blog about what goes on for a typical day at school. Read about his story in our guest blog post for this week! This year, I am working in the PAES…

By Anthony KaDarrell Thigpen Email: athigpen@aaed.org Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder have special needs that are best accommodated in Autism-only schools. Individual Educational Plans often require support services and specialized therapies. The Autism Academy for Education and Development places strong emphasis on meeting the needs of every student. Individual Educational Plans (IEPs), include onsite occupational,…

By Anthony KaDarrell Thigpen   Email: athigpen@aaed.org  Fostering a fun atmosphere seems to come natural at Autism Academy for Education and Development. While the previously mentioned growth components seem to require a savvy sense of educational expertise, making learning fun is equally as important. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with…

By Anthony KaDarrell Thigpen   Email: athigpen@aaed.org  Building a culture of character amongst children with Autism is a multifaceted daily task that requires risks. Autism Academy for Education and Development is one of the nation’s leading experts in Autism education. The Arizona-based Autism-only school has nearly 180 employees, over 400 students, 6 facilities and 4 campuses statewide. Their vision of keeping…

By Anthony KaDarrell Thigpen   Email: athigpen@aaed.org  Autism Academy for Education and Development provides a curriculum, coaching and culture that defines the nation’s leading experts in Autism education. In doing so, AAED administrators strategically provide growth components in 8 areas of expertise focused on Autism education. Curriculum, coaching and culture is the 5th highlight of the school’s critical growth components. The Autism…