Parents are faced with several options when choosing the right school for their teen with autism. There are several factors to consider, but choosing to send your teen to a specialized school can make a world of difference in helping your teen excel in school and beyond. 

Specialized schools are committed to building a welcoming and structured educational environment for the diverse learning needs of their students. If you’re considering a specialized school for your teen, here are eight benefits of schools specializing in autism that you can consider when making this important choice.

1. Sense of Fitting In

Students may feel more socially accepted in a specialized school as they are surrounded by peers who have faced similar challenges to them and have a personal understanding of what they are experiencing. This provides greater opportunities for students to build close relationships with one another and in turn, increase a student’s social support network. 

While working with students who are similar in ability, students at a specialized school will also work with faculty who understand how to teach all academic levels. A specialized school like PS Academy creates a sense of belonging for students among peers and staff.

2. Focus on Ability, Not Age 

Public schools commonly group students based on age and often leave teens who have different learning needs feeling ostracized. All students are unique, and not all develop skills at the same rate. Specialized schools do not focus on a teen’s diagnosis or age but instead focus on their abilities, a far more relevant gauge of how to best assist a teen’s development. Grouping students based on their ability level helps prevent students from feeling left behind.

3. More Personal Attention

A specialized school such as PS Academy treats students as unique individuals and fosters an environment that helps them to develop their fullest set of abilities. By asking questions unique to your teen, “what educational plan is best”, “how can we support their educational and social development”, “how do we maximize your teen’s potential”, PS Academy and other specialized schools can provide the personal element that can help your teen thrive.

4. Specially Trained Instructors

Some parents express frustration with public schools as they feel the faculty isn’t fully equipped to support their teen’s needs. Specialized schools are able to hire staff who are trained in supporting the education of teens with special needs. These teachers and Instructional Assistants collaborate to ensure that each student reaches their full potential.  

5. Specialized Curriculum

Public schools take a one-size fits all approach, which frequently leaves out many students. In addition to uniquely trained staff who can support your teen’s needs, a specialized school can offer unique curriculums to support your teen’s needs.

6. Specialized Electives and Clubs

A specialized school offers unique activities that can support your teen’s development outside of the classroom as well. PS Academy offers over 20 electives and clubs for students enrolled in our secondary education program, including physical fitness, art, and theater classes, among many others. In addition to elective classes, PS Academy offers a number of clubs to foster your teen’s social development while they learn and have fun with their friends. Your teen can find their next great interest if given the opportunity through a specialized elective program.  

7. Transition Programs to Prepare for the Future

Transition programs offer your teen the opportunity to build important skills they will use throughout their lives such as independent living and vocational skills. As your student progresses through these programs, they are able to refine their abilities and learn the skills needed to face life with confidence and independence.

Before finalizing your selection of a transition program for your teen, there are some important points to consider. PS Academy offers a specialized transition program to our students starting as young as 18 years of age.

8. Support for Parents

Specialized schools go beyond offering excellent programs and opportunities for teens but are also able to provide parents with support. PS Academy helps parents collaborate via a social media page designed only for parents of current students. Parents are able to share information and resources as well as v scheduling time for students to see each other outside of school hours., Is a Specialized School Right for Your Teen?

Ultimately, parents need to decide whether a specialized school is right for their teen. At PS Academy, we see past the label and focus on the able. To learn more about us, please contact PS Academy today to have a commitment-free chat with one of our team members or to schedule a virtual tour.  

Your student deserves to be seen for their abilities, rather than defined by their diagnosis.

Here at PS Academy Arizona, students love coming to school. Why? Because here, they aren't defined by their diagnosis. They shine when they identify their abilities, are accepted for their differences, make friends, and discover new skills. They are given the tools and the responsibility they need to be challenged and inspired to excel in school and beyond.