CA Asperger's Syndrome Schools

Orion Academy, Passageway School, and The Springstone School

Jan 21, 2008

These California-based special education schools are dedicated to providing a positive educational experience for individuals with Asperger's Syndrome.

As Asperger’s Syndrome (AS) and other autism spectrum disorders are becoming more prevalent, educators are realizing the need for a dedicated educational environment for students with AS. Parents do not have to agonize over inclusion, self-contained classrooms or mainstreaming as these California-based special education schools cater to children with Asperger’s Syndrome.

Orion Academy

Located in Moraga, California, the “Orion Academy provides a quality college-preparatory program for secondary students whose academic success is compromised by a neurocognitive disability such as Asperger's syndrome, or NLD (Non-verbal Learning Disorder).” Orion Academy was founded in 2000 and currently has an enrollment of 50 students. In addition to more than 35 classes geared towards preparing students for college, Orion Academy also offers many extracurricular activities including Student Council and a chess club.

The Orion Academy does have certain criteria that must be met in order for a student to gain admission. A few of these include an absence of behavioral problems, an average to above average verbal IQ, and the student must have basic self-care skills. For more information on the Orion Academy, the school can be reached at (925) 377-0789.

Passageway School

Featuring a student to staff ratio of 2:1, Passageway School utilizes the TEEACH approach as well as the ABA Discrete Trial System to help its students succeed educationally. Passageway School educates students with all types of autism spectrum disorders, including Asperger’s Syndrome, and is located in Newbury Park, California. All of the teachers at the Passageway School are certified special educators. For enrollment information, contact the school at (805) 375-4950.

The Springstone School

The Springstone School, located in Lafayette, California, is geared towards middle school students. The school focuses on children with, among other things, Asperger’s Syndrome, Nonverbal Learning Disorder, ADHD, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder. The Springstone School understands the unique needs of children with executive dysfunction; “all instruction integrates pragmatic language, occupational therapy, organizational skills and life skills in the classroom and in the community.”

The school is equipped with laptop computers in all of the classrooms, wireless internet, and a shared network that is accessible by all students. In addition to academics, the school also has a classroom dedicated to acquiring and implementing social skills. More information can be obtained by contacting the school directly at (925) 962-9660.

These three special education schools allow students with Asperger’s Syndrome, as well as other autism spectrum disorders, to obtain a quality education in a comfortable atmosphere. Peer pressure, bullying, and an over-stimulating environment are all barriers to a positive educational experience in a traditional school setting. Attending one of these schools dedicated to individuals with Asperger’s Syndrome ensures the best possible educational outcome for students.

The copyright of the article CA Asperger's Syndrome Schools in Autism & Education is owned by Melissa Hincha-Ownby. Permission to republish CA Asperger's Syndrome Schools in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.