Autism Academy to Open New Campus in North Phoenix

Rendering of the new Autism Academy campus in north Phoenix, providing a supportive learning environment for students.

News Summary

The Autism Academy for Education and Development has announced plans to open a new campus in north Phoenix for the upcoming school year, aiming to alleviate the waitlist for students with autism. The new facility will span over 26,000 square feet and accommodate students from kindergarten through 12th grade, providing personalized education in a supportive environment. With an emphasis on family engagement and future expansion plans, AAED continues to meet the growing demand for specialized educational resources in Arizona.

Phoenix, AZ – The Autism Academy for Education and Development (AAED) has announced plans to open a new campus in north Phoenix for the 2025-2026 school year. This new facility is intended to serve as both a relocation and expansion of the current Peoria campus, which will aim to alleviate the waitlist for students seeking placement in specialized educational programs. The north Phoenix campus will begin welcoming students at the end of July 2025.

The new building will occupy 26,625 square feet and will feature 13 classrooms, a gym, and an outdoor play area on a campus that spans two acres of open space. It is designed to accommodate students from kindergarten through 12th grade, continuing services for individuals up to age 22. This enhanced capacity will provide a comprehensive program for a diverse student population across the autism spectrum.

AAED’s mission focuses on fostering growth, confidence, and life skills through personalized education tailored to each student’s unique needs. The organization emphasizes a supportive and safe learning environment aimed at enabling students to reach their full potential academically, behaviorally, and socially. The executive director noted that the school employs small student-to-teacher ratios to ensure personalized instruction and support.

Comprehensive Educational Offerings

The new campus will offer a variety of programs, including core academics, arts, music, and physical education, alongside specialized life skills training customized for each student. Such training is crucial for personal development and prepares older students with vocational skills essential for life after high school.

Students will benefit from a “can-do” approach, emphasizing accessibility and support to help them thrive in their educational journey. The thoughtful grouping of classrooms by age and developmental level reinforces AAED’s commitment to providing an individualized learning experience.

Family Engagement and Community Building

AAED places a significant emphasis on family engagement, offering events designed to foster community among families and facilitate connections. This community-oriented focus supports an inclusive atmosphere that values collaboration among students, families, and educators.

With multiple campuses already established—including online options, as well as locations in Tempe, Gilbert, Glendale, and Tucson—AAED is well-positioned for continued growth. Future expansion plans include new campuses in Queen Creek and Maricopa, further broadening access to educational resources for students with autism in Arizona.

Financial Assistance and Enrollment Process

AAED participates in Arizona’s Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program, which enables many families with children on the autism spectrum to access educational opportunities without incurring out-of-pocket costs. This initiative underscores the academy’s commitment to ensuring that quality education is accessible to those who need it most.

To assist families with the admission process, AAED provides enrollment coordinators to help guide parents through applications and identify the best fit for their child. Parents interested in exploring enrollment options can find additional information on AAED’s website.

With its new campus opening in Phoenix, AAED is taking significant steps toward meeting the growing demand for specialized educational services for students with autism, prioritizing their developmental and educational needs while enhancing community engagement and support.