Autism Schools in Florida
Applied Behavior Analysis is a Popular Model for Autism Education
Aug 8, 2009
At one time, private autism schools were difficult to find and parents would have to look at a nearby state in order to find a quality education for their child. As autism spectrum disorders have increased in prevalence, so has the availability of specialized educational institutions. There are several autism schools in Florida, from Tampa to Jacksonville and Ft. Meyers to Miami.
Florida Autism Center of Excellence
Located in Tampa, the Florida Autism Center of Excellence (FACE) serves students in preschool through 12th grade with moderate to severe autism. Due to the economic crisis that the nation was facing in 2009, the school was scheduled to close its doors in June 2009. However, Quest Inc stepped in and will manage the school during the 2009-2010 school year.
Children between the ages of 3 and 22 are provided individualized instruction including occupational, physical, and speech therapy. Students at the school work on a variety of skills including educational, social skills, and independent living skills.
For more information on FACE, contact the school at (813) 621-FACE.
Jacksonville School for Children with Autism
Founded in 2005, the Jacksonville School for Children with Autism is a recognized 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit private school. Instruction at the school is based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) methodologies.
“Additionally, students combine aspects of Speech and Language Therapy, Rapid Prompting Method, Greenspan DIR model, Relationship Development Intervention, Occupational Therapy/Sensory Integration, picture schedules, and socialization with peers.” Source: Jacksonville School for Children with Autism
Students at the school range in age from three to 16. Younger students can participate in either a half-day or full day program. Middle school students focus on academics while the older children are prepared to transfer from a traditional education-based program to a trade program.
For more information, contact the school directly at (904) 732-4343.
Peace by Piece
Peace by Piece Learning Center is located in North Fort Myers and serves children on the autism spectrum as well as students with related conditions. The school is a certified private school by the Florida Department of Education and accepts McKay Scholarships for parents wishing to offset the tuition.
Students at the school focus on academic goals, social skills, and behavioral needs through Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), an evidence-based practice commonly used with individuals on the autism spectrum.
The school can be contacted at (239) 652-4323.
The Victory Center
The Victory Center was founded in 2000 in Miami, Florida. The parents of a child on the autism spectrum started the school and at its opening, it had four students. The school has grown significantly since its founding and now provides a variety of educational services to individuals on the autism spectrum as well as those with behavioral challenges.
Like the majority of autism schools in the nation, The Victory Center uses Applied Behavior Analysis as the basis of its instruction model. The school offers preschool, elementary, and secondary school programs. Additionally, The Victory Center provides a much needed community-entry program for individuals with autism transitioning into adulthood.
To learn more about the programs offered at The Victory Center, call (305) 466-1142.
There are more than just these four autism schools in Florida. Parents seeking a school closer to where they live should contact the Florida Department of Education at (850) 245-0505.
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