• A DIR® dedicated school serving students 5-22 years old with Autism and related disorders.
• Building relationships and social interactions will be the cornerstone of the educational environment.
• Students will have an individual curriculum that integrates their own natural interests, developmental level and therapeutic goals.
• Students will be actively engaged in exciting dynamic learning.
• Learning experiences will promote problem solving, critical thinking and social emotional development.

• Family involvement is a central component of the program.
• Parents and children grow and learn together.
• Education must embrace, support and involve families.
• Parents will be respected as active partners in their child’s education through observation, training, and classroom visits.
• Parents will be supported in understanding their child’s strengths and challenges to bridge the home and school environment.
• Parent support groups led by mental health staff will be available to families.

• A range of dynamic vocational experiences will be organized around developmental, social and therapeutic goals.
• Vocational activities will follow each student’s natural interests and strengths.
• Students will participate in innovative work programs within the Academy environment.
• Vocational opportunities will be facilitated through partnerships with local businesses in the community.

• Will serve as a Model School implementing the DIR® approach.
• Training will be available to school districts, parents and professionals seeking knowledge in implementing the DIR® model in an educational setting.
• The Academy plans to conduct research to demonstrate the merits of utilizing DIR® methodology in a school environment.

“It is my son’s right to be honored, respected, celebrated and
engaged lovingly to insure he meets his highest potential in life.”
— MaryAnn Markley parent of Noah 8 years old