By Anthony KaDarrell Thigpen AnthonyKaDarrellThigpen@gmail.com AUTISM – The Autism Academy for Education and Development (AAED) is trailblazing uncharted territory to increase successful post-graduate outcomes. Two of the school’s newest employees assisting in classrooms are recent AAED graduates. Transition coordinator Karen Durst is helping the school to navigate new pilot programs that best prepare students with…

By Anthony KaDarrell Thigpen AnthonyKaDarrellThigpen@gmail.com   AUTISM – With more than 300 registrations and counting, the Autism Academy for Education and Development (AAED) is making waves for the new school year. The school is hosting two separate pool parties, east and west valley students and families will have an opportunity to splash into fun. The…

By Anthony KaDarrell Thigpen E-mail: AnthonyKaDarrellThigpen@gmail.com   AUTISM ACADEMY – During the 2017-18 school year, east and west valley Autism Academy teachers remain steadfast amid strategic transitions to accommodate rapid growth. With a ribbon cutting ceremony in Tempe, a new facility in Peoria, and the Gilbert campus relocating to Chandler, the school is experiences unprecedented…

By Anthony KaDarrell Thigpen E-mail: AnthonyKaDarrellThigpen@gmail.com AUTISM ACADEMY –Art students designed and painted aircraft portraits to donate for display at Carlisle Companies. More than 70 artists at the Autism Academy participated in the program with art teacher Amy Floyd. Now the art program is soaring even higher with a $5000 contribution from Carlisle. Art One…

Learn about the steps of how to apply for ESA for students with autism!

By Anthony KaDarrell Thigpen Email: Anthony_Thigpen@aol.com   AUTISM ACADEMY – Most students have echoed the expression “When I grow up…”, while daydreaming of plans for their future. Career Technology Education (CTE) programs afford students the opportunity to explore various options with hopes of sparking interests. Most schools offer classes in areas of culinary, wood crafts,…

by Anthony KaDarrell Thigpen Email: AnthonyKaDarrellThigpen@gmail.com   AUTISM ACADEMY – Kerrie Mallory-Thompson is no ordinary mom – she has a direct connection with Kris Kringle – the holiday icon that most kids call “Santa Claus”. Her holiday vision is spreading compassion and hope to hundreds of children with sensory sensitivities and other special needs. Mallory-Thompson…

By Anthony KaDarrell Thigpen E-mail: Anthony_Thigpen@aol.com AUTISM ACADEMY – Parents of children with autism sometimes face frustrating challenges trying to take a traditional approach to discipline. This is why the Autism Academy sees behavioral excellence as a critical part of their mission. The Autism Academy utilizes several methods to modify and teach replacement behaviors. According…