In Broward County, Florida, several schools provide education and resources for children with autism.
In this article, we will provide a detailed overview of these top autism schools in Broward County, what they offer, and links to their websites.
Broward County Public Schools has more than 6,400 students with ASD, which accounts for approximately 17% of the total population of students with disabilities. These numbers increase every year, in line with the global statistic of 1 in every 59 individuals. Most ASD students receive instruction and related services in their local schools within a general education setting.
The Broward County autism schools offer specialized programs for ASD, such as specialized varying exceptionality classes (SVE), secondary transition support models, special day schools, and other settings.
In addition, the district provides services such as curriculum support to teachers and staff, information and assistance for families new to the school district, autism awareness and advocacy, program design and development, and staff development and technical support to schools.
Who Are Neurodiverse Individuals?
Individuals who are neurodiverse have unique ways of thinking and processing information compared to the majority of their peers.
This group includes individuals on the autism spectrum, those with ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, tics, or emotional and processing disorders. These differences can pose challenges to learning, communicating with others, and self-expression.
Autism – Why Treatments Alone Don’t Work
Although certain products may alleviate some of the symptoms associated with Autism, there is no product available to treat ASD.
While products targeting anxiety, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, and mood stabilization may be helpful for some students in managing their daily life, these substances alone will not result in any long-term effects without proper cognitive, behavioral, and social program intervention.
The List of Autism Schools in Broward County:
The Quest Center
The Quest Center is a non-profit school that provides education and support for children with autism.
They offer a full-day program, as well as after-school and summer programs.
Services Provided:
- Curriculum support to teachers and support staff
- Information and assistance for families new to Broward County Public Schools
- Autism awareness and advocacy
- Program design and development
- Staff development and technical support to schools
This school uses evidence-based teaching methods and individualized instruction to meet the needs of each student.
Divine Academy of Broward | Special Needs School
Divine Academy provides students with autism and special needs the means and knowledge for independent living and to enter the workforce.
This is achieved through educational, vocational, and life skills instruction in a safe, nurturing, and structured environment.
Visit the website.
Baudhuin Preschool
Baudhuin Preschool is a school for children with autism and developmental delays (Ages 3-5 years old).
NSU’s Baudhuin Preschool is an internationally recognized, model program for children with autism spectrum disorder. They offer a therapeutic program that focuses on cognitive, social-emotional, adaptive, behavioral, motor, and communication skill development within a relationship-based environment.
In addition to the educational programming offered at the Baudhuin Preschool, many therapeutic and support services are offered to children and families.
Some services include:
- Behavioral Therapy
- Speech/Language Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Training and Support Services
The program is offered in partnership with the School Board of Broward County and is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Visit the website.
School for Autism
AEF Schools has an academy and preparatory program which may fit specific students diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
AEF Schools has specific requirements for accepting children with ASD and individualized learning for students with Autism and Asperger Syndrome. Visit the website.
South Florida Autism Charter School
SFACS targets students on the autism spectrum, and who have communication deficits, behavioral issues, and/or require training in self-care and activities of daily living.
The curriculum combines principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Verbal Behavior (VB), which has been proven to be a very effective method in the treatment of ASD.
Curriculum infuses:
- Unique Learning Systems
- Supplemental Curricula
- Verbal Behavior MAPP (VB-MAPP)
- Assessment for Basic Language and Learning Skills – Revised (ABLLS-R)
- Assessment for Functional Living Skills (AFFLS)
- Essentials for Living
Classrooms are small in size and comprised of a 3:1 student-to-teacher ratio. There are no more than 9 students per classroom, with 1 Teacher certified by the State of Florida in Special Education & General Education, assisted by 2 Teacher Assistants.
In addition, all direct-care staff is thoroughly trained in the ABA-VB method. Visit the website.
The Learning Academy at The Els Center of Excellence
The Learning Academy is a school for children with autism that focuses on academic, social, and life skills development.
They use a combination of evidence-based teaching methods, technology, and individualized instruction to help students reach their full potential.
The school also provides parent training and support. Services range from Adult services, Research, Therapy services, Recreation Programs, and Services.
The global mission of Els for Autism is to transform the lives of people with autism and those who care for them through lifetime services and collaborative partnerships. Visit the website.
The Mailman Segal Center – Nova Southeastern University
The Mailman Segal Center provides a range of services for children with autism, including early intervention, therapy, and education.
They offer a comprehensive program that includes academics, therapy, and social skills development.
The center offers clinical services, training, community outreach, research and practicum, internship and post-doctoral opportunities for students and professionals in the field of human development.
Nova Middle School Autism Academy
Nova Middle School’s Autism Academy is a public school program that provides education and support for middle school students with autism.
They offer services to those along the autism spectrum, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, or tics, or those with processing or emotional disorders.
Their program uses evidence-based teaching methods and individualized instruction to help students reach their full potential.
Atlantis Academy Coral Springs- Autism Academy
Atlantis Academy Coral Springs is a K-12 private school, that educates students with learning differences and various abilities.
Atlantis Academy offers a unique educational program that includes individualized attention and specialized instruction while providing the behavioral, social and emotional support necessary for students to reach their full potential.
The school has a low student-to-teacher ratio, a welcoming environment and experienced, caring and nurturing staff who help foster students’ self-confidence and self-esteem. Visit the website.
Center Academy Prep Coral Springs
Center Academy is a fully accredited, independent private school, family-operated since 1968, providing a college prep curriculum for students with learning differences in grades 4-12.
Staff and teachers are experienced and offer services to children with a range of learning differences and challenges, including dyslexia, ADHD, and autism spectrum/ Asperger’s.
With an individual student assessment, they help each student set and reach their personal educational goals. Visit the website.
What is an autism school?
An autism school is a specialized educational facility designed to provide a safe and supportive learning environment for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). These schools offer individualized education plans and a range of therapies and interventions to help children with autism reach their full potential.
Are there any autism schools in Broward County? Yes, there are several autism schools in Broward County, some of which are listed above.
What age range do autism schools in Broward County serve?
Autism schools in Broward County typically serve children from preschool age to high school age.
Can children with other disabilities attend autism schools in Broward County?
Autism schools in Broward County are designed specifically for children with autism, but some schools may also serve children with other disabilities. It is important to check with the school to determine their eligibility requirements.
What is the admission process for autism schools in Broward County?
The admission process for autism schools in Broward County varies depending on the school. Generally, parents will need to complete an application and provide documentation of their child’s diagnosis and educational history. The school may also conduct an evaluation to determine the child’s needs and eligibility.
Do autism schools in Broward County provide transportation services?
Some autism schools in Broward County provide transportation services for students, while others do not. It is important to check with the school to determine their transportation policy.
How much does it cost to attend an autism school in Broward County?
The cost of attending an autism school in Broward County varies depending on the school and the services provided. Some schools may offer scholarships or financial assistance to families who cannot afford the full cost of tuition.
Conclusion
In Broward County, Florida, several schools provide education and resources for children with autism.
These schools offer a range of programs and services, including evidence-based teaching methods, therapy, and social skills development.
By providing individualized instruction and support, these schools help children with autism reach their full potential. If you have a child with autism in Broward County, consider exploring these schools and their programs to find the best fit for your child’s needs. Check out the 8 Top Autism Schools in Denver.
