In 2013 I had a dream to develop a school for children with Autism and fill an educational gap that exisited. A school that met children where they were emotionally, academically, behaviorally and provided the supports each student required to become the best version of themselves. As a mother of twins with complex needs there wasn't a school that gave my boys what I knew they required to grow .

Loved. Safe. Educated.

Since the founding of ASUA in 2013 these three words have stayed at the core of who we are. For our students and their families the knowledge of being safe and held with care and compassion is of the upmost importance. Without that, students like ours can not thrive.

The faculty and staff work tirelessly to ensure students have the space and support to be their best selves and that they grow and develop all aspects of who they are and what they are capable of. Our staff are always supporting ways to give students independence with a focus on ensuring safety, compassion and love in a child-led educational environment.

We opened ASUA in 2013 with just 2 students. This September we move to our new facility in the first two floors of 125 Royal Ave (formerly Bishop McDevitt High School) with close to 90 students. And the growth doesn't stop there. We have BIG plans over the next 5 years that build on our existing programming while connecting to new partnerships in the community - Like Arcadia University where our students in our extended year program are spending a week on campus. Or Weavers Way Coop whose partnership allowed our students to gain real job skills in our community. Our vision of “preparing our students for the world and the world for our students” is one that bridges the classroom to the community.

Please consider a donation to my Founder's Team for the walk on August 24th at our new facility. Come that day and walk yourself, or cheer us on and visit our new location!

-Karen Misher

Founder and Board Chair of ASUA