NOW ENROLLING
For 2024-2025 School Year
OUR SPECIALIZED AUTISM EDUCATION PROGRAMS IN ARIZONA
Children with autism need a school that truly understands their needs. At Autism Academy for Education and Development (AAED) in Arizona, we offer more than just an education—we provide a nurturing, dynamic environment where your child can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Our dedicated staff and unique approach to special education create a warm, engaging environment where your child can grow and shine!
Empowering Children with Autism Since 2013
AAED specializes in creating a supportive and effective learning environment for children with autism spectrum disorder. We provide each student with the attention and support they need and offer exceptional individualized autism programs for:
Our autism educational programs emphasize both academic and personal growth, integrating subjects like Music, Art, PE, Life Skills, and Technology into our curriculum. We use a hands-on, multi-sensory approach to encourage student engagement and present all instructions in an atmosphere designed for learning, acceptance of others, compassion, and encouragement.
TEACHING METHODOLOGY
AAED’s educational programs for autism utilize individualized instruction and evidence-based methods to meet the unique needs of each student.
Each child is assessed to create a tailored learning plan that addresses their strengths, challenges, and learning style. To further enhance the educational experience, AAED groups students with autism together in classrooms who are on similar academic and social levels. This strategic grouping not only ensures that students receive instruction that is appropriate for their developmental stage but also fosters an environment where they can form meaningful connections with peers, allowing them to get the most out of their education in a setting that supports both their intellectual and social development.
Our approach includes:
- Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Methodology- ABA provides an evidence-based framework for addressing the needs of students with autism within the educational environment. Our teachers use Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) methodology to reinforce appropriate behaviors and support students through positive interventions.
- Autism Language Development - AAED emphasizes autism language development across all grade levels. Our programs include specialized interventions and techniques to support and enhance our students' communication skills, helping them express themselves more effectively and confidently in both social and academic settings.
- Structured Teaching Model - Our classrooms are designed to leverage students' visual strengths, with organized physical spaces and visual cues to aid learning. This helps students better understand their daily schedule and expectations, reducing anxiety and promoting independent learning.
- Speech and Occupational Therapy - To further meet the individual needs of our students, we offer in-house speech and occupational therapy services based on the hours specified in each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP). Students receive consistent and coordinated therapy to address their communication, motor, and sensory needs during the school day.
- Professional Development - Our staff undergoes continuous professional development in autism to stay updated with the latest practices and research. This ensures that our educators are well-equipped to address the diverse needs of our students.
KINDERGARTEN
AAED provides a nurturing environment where young learners can discover, develop, and thrive from their first day of school. Our kindergarten autism educational programs focus on social skills training, academics, Speech and OT Therapy, and behavioral support so students develop the necessary skills from the start.
Kindergarten enrollment for the current school year is only available to children who turn 5 on or before September 1st.
ELEMENTARY AND MIDDLE SCHOOL
Academic Instruction
Students receive differentiated instruction in math, science, language arts, history, social sciences, the arts, and physical education. Instruction is delivered individually, in small groups, and in whole class settings through a variety of modalities, utilizing specific materials or programs to improve proficiency in those areas.
Our general curriculum is aligned with the state educational standards and modified to each student's individual needs for a comprehensive and inclusive education.
Daily Skills Program
Our Daily Skills Program gives students the tools and training they need to function with the greatest possible productivity and independence in the community, home, and workplace. We equip students with practical skills for everyday life, including meal preparation, household tasks, following directions, sequencing, and laundry skills.
Testimonials
HIGH SCHOOL
Our High School autism education program is fully accredited and meets the graduation requirements of the Arizona Department of Education (ADE). We prepare students for various post-secondary opportunities, whether they earn a high school diploma or a certificate of completion. Students can choose from a variety of pathways, attending core classes and exploring areas of interest such as drama, arts, music, technology, culinary, physical education, career development, and more!
Each pathway has specific courses and work-based learning requirements designed to provide the opportunity for each student to reach their greatest potential for success upon leaving AAED.
Academic Pathway:
Students in this pathway complete coursework aligned with Arizona High School graduation standards. They are prepared for post-secondary education, including college or technical school.
Vocational Pathway:
Students in this pathway are academically below grade level. The coursework follows Arizona high school graduation standards but is modified.
The vocational pathway prepares students for work-based post-secondary placements with on-the-job training and support. Students may stay beyond the typical four years of high school.
Functional Vocational Pathway
Students in this pathway are academically well below grade level and focus on daily skills and life skills. The curriculum is designed to prepare them for supported employment through hands-on vocational training tailored to their individual needs and interests, helping them transition smoothly into the workforce.
Many students choose to extend their time beyond the traditional four years of high school to continue developing these crucial skills and maximize their independence.
Essential Skills Pathway:
This pathway is for students with minimal academic ability, focusing on developing independence in daily living. Students in this program receive individualized support and instruction and remain in the pathway until they age out at 22 years old, ensuring they have the time and resources to reach their highest potential in day-to-day activities.
WORK-BASED LEARNING
Most of our high school students engage in career exploration and preparation. Some students participate in community job training, focusing on developing independent work behaviors and enhancing post-secondary opportunities. Others take part in on-campus job training, including areas such as delivery, clerical/business, domestic/housekeeping, culinary/hospitality, retail/warehouse, horticulture/landscaping, and technology.
Through these opportunities, students practice:
- Performing job tasks independently
- Working in group settings with minimal supervision
- Accepting directions from supervisors
- Soliciting help appropriately
- Maintaining appropriate workplace behavior
B.R.I.D.G.E. AUTISM PROGRAM
Building Real-world Independence and Developing a Game-plan for Employment, Education, and Empowerment
The B.R.I.D.G.E. Program at AAED is designed for students who choose to stay beyond 12th grade. This program focuses on building skills and gaining experiences through internships and job opportunities before leaving AAED.
Students in the B.R.I.D.G.E. Program have already completed all their academic credits and focus solely on transition-based skills. The program offers options tailored to each learner's needs, ensuring they are well-prepared for the future.
Be A Part of the AAED Community!
Ready to provide your child with the best education tailored to their needs? Visit our website or get in touch with us directly to learn more about our autism education programs in Arizona and start the enrollment process.