At IA, students begin to feel accepted for the individual they are.

 

Honoring differences.

Our personalized curriculum and supportive environment helps students feel understood and included so they can focus on the task of learning and becoming productive, confident individuals. We collaborate with members of every student’s team to forge effective academic experiences and successful outcomes.

 
 

A place to belong.

  • Small, sensory-friendly classrooms

  • Structured days with sensory breaks

  • Individualized goal-setting

  • Qualified faculty that accepts and affirms students

An ideal experience.

  • Latitude to reach individual potential

  • Peaceful environment

  • Inclusion in school community

  • Specifically designed to meet the needs of children on the autism spectrum

A practical pace.

  • 5:1 student-to-teacher ratio

  • Daily exercise

  • Independence sensory lab

  • Manageable class assignments and homework

A holistic approach.

  • Recognition of the whole child

  • Celebration of individuality

  • Daily personal, social and emotional skills-building

  • Self-awareness and self-advocacy

 
 
 
 

Teaching with purpose.

We support the intellectual growth, habit formation and life skills development of every child in our care.

 
 

Our licensed faculty is passionate about fostering student growth, and is trained in best practices conducive to students on the autism spectrum, including: student assertiveness, positive behavior reinforcement, PEERS, HANDS in Autism, TEACCH and Visualizing and Verbalizing.

 

TECHNOLOGY

In preparing students for higher education and careers, technology use is integrated into the school day. Students have access to laptops and tablets in every classroom, and adaptive and dynamic online programs.

 

HOMEWORK

We believe in homework being manageable for IA students. While it is a part of The Independence Academy’s curriculum, emphasis is placed on creating a reasonable at-home workload, as we strive to be respectful of cherished family time.

 

MEASURING PROGRESS

Parent-teacher conferences are held twice a year, with additional meetings scheduled as needed. Report cards are issued quarterly and are accessible through Jupiter, IA’s online portal.

Did you know?

100% of our students graduate from IA and are successfully enrolled in college, pursuing specialized training or employed in a career of their choice within three to nine months post-graduation.

Our Philosophy

Students thrive at IA because our school model is smart, understanding and innovative.

The Independence Academy is a person-centered middle and high school dedicated to delivering a comprehensive, multifaceted education for diploma-track students on the autism spectrum.

EDUCATIONAL PRINCIPLES

  • Create a learning environment in which students feel accepted and understood.

  • Focus on student engagement and teaching the whole person by incorporating personal, social and emotional skills-building into a strong academic curriculum that is developmentally appropriate.

  • Employ deep, authentic, research-based teaching practices that are inclusive of student interests.

  • Coalesce multiple disciplines into lessons and learning programs.

  • Emphasize the arts through classroom integration.

  • Foster growth by tracking individual student goals and progress.

  • Promote acceptance of self and others while honoring differences, all in an inclusive, caring atmosphere.

  • Build a love of learning, and a sense of independence and strength, within students.