The Autism Academies are staffed by teachers and paraprofessionals who have worked with students with Autism for many years and who have demonstrated the highest regard for helping students to understand the world and to communicate effectively. They utilize visual supports and a variety of communication tools to help students succeed academically and socially. The use of technology is integrated throughout the student’s day.
The Autism Academies at Paul W. Bell Middle School was established to meet the unique needs of students. We create and maintain a family friendly setting within a regular school site by training all on-site personnel, and offering parent education workshops. We also provide model classrooms to serve students with Autism Spectrum Disorders both, in separate class, and inclusive settings, thereby facilitating research and training opportunities for teachers and others, while implementing students’ Individualized Education Plans. Our focus is on the individual needs of the students, while utilizing best practices, research and technology to address those needs.
Students must meet all of the following criteria:
Intensive Communication Academy:
- Eligible under Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
- Significant cognitive delay
- Eligible to receive instruction in the State Standards Access Points Curriculum (Modified Curriculum) and assessment by the Florida Standards Alternate Assessment (parent consent required)
- Significant language disorder
- Demonstrates an interest in using technology preferred
Rising Academy:
- Eligible under Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
- Eligible to receive instruction in the State Standards Curriculum and assessment by the Florida Standard Assessment
- Demonstrates an interest in using technology preferred