20 Top Autism Schools In Massachusetts: Special Needs Schools

Autism Schools In Massachusetts[Special Needs Schools]: There are a lot of schools out there that cater to students with autism, but finding the right one can be a challenge. If you’re looking for a school in Massachusetts that can provide your child with the best possible education and support, check out this list of the top 20 autism schools in the state. From Boston to Worcester and beyond, these schools are sure to meet your needs and help your child thrive.

What Are Autism Schools?

There are many different types of schools that serve students with Autism. Each type of school has its own unique features and benefits that can meet the needs of students with Autism.

The three main types of schools for students with Autism are:

  1. Autism-Specific Schools
  2. Inclusive Schools
  3. Mainstream Schools with Specialist Support

Autism Specific Schools are purpose-built and specifically cater to the needs of students with Autism. These schools typically have small class sizes, highly trained staff, and a curriculum that is designed to meet the needs of students with Autism. 

Inclusive Schools are regular schools that have been modified to include support for students with Autism. These schools typically have resource rooms or classes specifically for students with Autism, as well as specially trained staff members who are able to support these students in the mainstream classroom setting. 

Mainstream Schools with Specialist Support are regular schools that offer a range of specialist support services for students with Autism. These schools typically have an autism specialist on staff, as well as access to other support services such as speech therapy and occupational therapy.

When choosing a school for a child with Autism, it is important to consider the individual needs of the child and what type of school would best suit those needs. It is also important to visit the school and meet with the staff before making a decision.

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What Are The Requirements For Attending Autism Schools In Massachusetts?

In order to attend one of the top autism schools in Massachusetts, there are a few requirements that must be met. First and foremost, the child must have a diagnosis of autism from a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist. 

Additionally, the child must be between the ages of 3 and 22 years old. If the child is over the age of 5, they must also have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) in place. Lastly, the child must be a resident of Massachusetts.

How Much Are Autism Schools In Massachusetts?

The cost of tuition at an autism school in Massachusetts can range widely. Some schools are private and for-profit, while others are public and nonprofit. In general, private schools tend to be more expensive than public schools. The average cost of tuition at a private autism school in Massachusetts is $40,000 per year. However, there are some schools that charge as much as $100,000 per year. 

On the other hand, the average cost of tuition at a public autism school in Massachusetts is $15,000 per year. Some parents choose to send their children to an out-of-state autism school. The cost of tuition at an out-of-state school can be significantly higher than the cost of tuition at a school in Massachusetts. 

For example, the Autism Academy of Learning in Denver, Colorado charges $48,000 per year in tuition.

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The Top Autism Schools In Massachusetts

Below are the 20 top autism schools in Massachusetts:

Autism Schools In Massachusetts: Special Needs Schools

1. May Center School for Autism and Developmental Disabilities

May Center School for Autism and Developmental Disabilities is dedicated to providing a comprehensive, individualized educational program for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities.

The May Center School for Autism and Developmental Disabilities offers a wide range of services to meet the needs of each student. 

They provide a safe and supportive environment where students can learn, grow, and thrive. The highly trained staff members are passionate about helping the students reach their full potential.

They offer a variety of programs and services, including:

  • A comprehensive educational program that is individualized to meet the needs of each student
  • A safe and supportive environment where students can learn and grow
  • Highly trained staff members who are passionate about helping the students reach their full potential.

2. Crossroads School

Crossroads School is a therapeutic day school that specializes in educating students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The school provides a comprehensive and individualized education program that is designed to meet the unique needs of each student. 

Crossroads School offers a wide range of services to support students and their families, including diagnostic assessments, behavior management services, social skills training, and much more.

3. Boston Higashi School-Autism

Boston Higashi School is a special needs school that specializes in educating students with autism. The school was founded in 1963 by Dr. Carl Delacato, a pioneer in the field of applied behavior analysis.

The school uses a unique educational approach called the “Lifeline” system, which was developed by Dr. Delacato. The system is designed to meet the individual needs of each student and help them progress at their own pace.

The school’s curriculum focuses on academics, communication, social skills, and daily living skills. Students are also given opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities, such as sports and music.

The Boston Higashi School has a strong commitment to providing a supportive and nurturing environment for its students. The staff works closely with families to ensure that each child receives the best possible education and care.

4. League School

League School is a private, not-for-profit school that serves children and young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and related disabilities. The school provides a comprehensive educational program that is individualized to meet the needs of each student. The curriculum is based on the belief that all students can learn and make progress when provided with an appropriate education.

League School was founded in 1971 and is located in Walpole, Massachusetts. The school serves students from ages 3-21. There are three campuses, which include a preschool, elementary/middle school, and high school. 

Each campus has a team of teachers and therapists who work together to create an individualized education plan for each student.

The school offers a variety of services to its students, including speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, behavioral support, and social skills training. Students also have access to counseling services and psychiatric consultations. The staff at League School is committed to helping each student reach their fullest potential.

5. Melmark New England

Melmark New England is dedicated to providing quality educational, therapeutic and behavioral health services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

The programs are designed to meet the unique needs of each individual they serve, and the staff is committed to helping every individual reach their fullest potential.

They offer a variety of programs and services, including:

  • A comprehensive educational program that provides a foundation for success in school and in life
  • A therapeutic program that helps individuals develop social, emotional, and motor skills
  • A behavioral health program that helps individuals manage challenging behaviors
  • A residential program that provides a safe and supportive environment for individuals to live and learn

They are proud to be one of the top autism schools in Massachusetts, and they are committed to continuing to provide quality services to the students and their families.

6. The New England Center for Children

The New England Center for Children (NECC) is a nonprofit autism education center headquartered in Southborough, Massachusetts. The organization was founded in 1974 by Dr. Bernard Rimland, an American psychologist and pioneer in the field of autism research. 

The NECC provides intensive behavioral intervention (IBI) and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy to children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as well as resources and support for families. The New England Center for Children is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). 

The NECC has been recognized as a Model Program by the Association for Behavior Analysis International and is a member of the Autism Society of America.

The NECC’s mission is to “change the lives of children with autism around the world.” The organization accomplishes this through its innovative educational programs, cutting-edge research, and advocacy efforts. 

In addition to its main campus in Southborough, the NECC operates satellite schools in Abu Dhabi, China, Japan, Kuwait, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Spain, and the United Kingdom.

7. Evergreen Center

The Evergreen Center is a special needs school in Massachusetts that specializes in educating students with autism. The school was founded in 1972 and has been serving the community ever since. 

The Evergreen Center offers a wide range of services to its students, including an Individualized Education Program (IEP), behavior support, speech, and occupational therapy, and more. 

The staff at the Evergreen Center are highly trained and experienced in working with students with autism, and they are dedicated to providing each student with the individualized attention they need to succeed. 

In addition to its excellent educational programs, the Evergreen Center also offers a variety of extracurricular activities for its students, including sports teams, clubs, and outings.

8. The Darnell School- HMEA

The Darnell School- HMEA is one of the top autism schools in Massachusetts. The school offers a comprehensive program that includes academics, communication, social skills, and behavioral support. 

The staff is highly trained and experienced in working with students with autism. The school also has a strong focus on family involvement.

9. Nashoba Learning Group Inc

Nashoba Learning Group Inc is a school for children with autism that was founded in 1992. The school is located in Devens, Massachusetts, and serves students aged 3-22. 

Nashoba Learning Group Inc offers a variety of programs and services to meet the needs of its students, including a day program, an extended day program, and a residential program. 

The school also offers a variety of therapies, such as occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech therapy. Nashoba Learning Group Inc is accredited by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

10. McLean Hospital- Pathways Academy

Pathways Academy is a special needs school that provides comprehensive services for students with autism and other developmental disabilities. 

The school offers a variety of programs and services designed to meet the unique needs of each student. Pathways Academy is accredited by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

The school’s mission is to provide a supportive learning environment where students with developmental disabilities can thrive. Pathways Academy offers a wide range of services to meet the individual needs of each student. 

The school’s curriculum is based on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). ABA is a science-based approach to behavior change that has been shown to be effective in helping individuals with autism reach their full potential.

Pathways Academy provides a variety of educational and therapeutic services, including:

  • Individualized education programs based on the principles of ABA
  • Speech and language therapy
  • Occupational therapy
  • Physical therapy
  • Psychological services
  • Nutrition counseling
  • Social skills training
  • Transition planning and support

11. Devereux Cares School

Devereux Cares School is a top autism school in Massachusetts that provides a unique educational experience for students with autism. 

The school offers a wide range of services and programs that are designed to meet the needs of each individual student. The staff at Devereux Cares is committed to helping every student reach their full potential.

The school provides a variety of academic and enrichment programs that are tailored to meet the individual needs of each student. 

The curriculum is based on the latest research and evidence-based practices. Students are supported in their learning by a team of highly trained teachers and therapists.

The school also offers a number of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and clubs. These activities provide valuable opportunities for socialization and skill development. 

In addition, the school offers a number of community-based programs that allow students to participate in real-world experiences.

Devereux Cares School is dedicated to providing an inclusive environment where all students can feel safe, respected, and valued. 

The staff works hard to create an atmosphere of acceptance and understanding. Families are welcome to be involved in their child’s education at Devereux Cares School.

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12. Riverview School

Riverview School is a special needs school located in Massachusetts that specializes in educating students with autism. The school provides a supportive and nurturing environment for its students and offers a wide range of services to meet their individual needs. 

Riverview School is dedicated to helping its students reach their full potential and become independent, productive members of society.

The school offers a variety of programs and services to its students, including:

  • A comprehensive curriculum that is designed to meet the individual needs of each student
  • Specialized instruction in the areas of communication, social skills, and behavior management
  • A variety of therapies, including occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech therapy
  • A wide range of extracurricular activities, such as sports, clubs, and arts & crafts
  • A strong focus on family involvement and support.

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13. New England Academy

The New England Academy is a special needs school that specializes in educating students with autism. The school is located in the town of Northampton, Massachusetts, and serves students in grades K-12. 

The New England Academy was founded in 2002 and is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. The school has a student-to-teacher ratio of 3:1 and an average class size of 10 students.

The New England Academy offers a comprehensive curriculum that is designed to meet the unique needs of students with autism. The school also provides a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, clubs, and after-school programs. 

In addition, the academy offers a variety of support services, including counseling, speech therapy, and occupational therapy.

The New England Academy is committed to providing a high-quality education for all of its students. If you are looking for a special needs school that can provide your child with the individualized attention they deserve, then the New England Academy may be the right fit for you.

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14. Dearborn Academy

Dearborn Academy is one of the top autism schools in Massachusetts. The school provides comprehensive and individualized education for students with autism spectrum disorders. The school offers a wide range of services and programs, including:

  • A curriculum that is specifically designed for students with autism
  • One-to-one instruction
  • A safe and nurturing environment
  • A variety of extracurricular activities
  • Therapeutic services

Dearborn Academy has a highly trained staff that is dedicated to meeting the needs of each individual student. The school provides a supportive and inclusive environment where students can thrive.

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15. James F. Farr Academy, Inc.

Farr Academy is a special needs school located in Massachusetts. The school provides a range of services to children with autism, including an individualized education program, speech and occupational therapy, and social skills training. 

In addition to its academic program, the school also offers extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and art.

Farr Academy is accredited by the National Autism Association and the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

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16. Landmark School

Landmark School is a nationally recognized leader in educating students with language-based learning disabilities. Located in Prides Crossing, Massachusetts, Landmark serves nearly 200 students from more than 20 states and several foreign countries.

Since its founding in 1971, Landmark has been committed to helping students with dyslexia, ADHD, and other language-based learning disabilities reach their full potential. The school’s comprehensive academic and enrichment programs are designed to meet the unique needs of each student.

Landmark’s experienced faculty and staff provide a supportive and nurturing environment that helps students build confidence and develop the skills they need to succeed in school and in life. 

The school’s small class sizes allow for individualized attention, and the low student-to-teacher ratio ensures that each student gets the support they need to succeed.

In addition to its excellent academic program, Landmark offers a variety of extracurricular activities and clubs, including sports teams, drama clubs, art clubs, and more. 

There are also many opportunities for students to get involved in community service projects. If you are looking for an autism school in Massachusetts that can help your child reach their full potential, Landmark School is an excellent choice.

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17. Milestones Day School and Transition Program

When it comes to choosing an autism school in Massachusetts, Milestones Day School and Transition Program are one of the top schools in the state. The school is dedicated to helping students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) reach their full potential.

The school offers a variety of services to its students, including a day school program and a transition program. The day school program is designed for students aged 3-14 who have been diagnosed with ASD. The program focuses on academics, communication, social skills, and behavior management.

The transition program is designed for students aged 15-21 who are transitioning from the day school program to adulthood. The program focuses on preparing students for independent living, employment, and post-secondary education.

Milestones Day School and Transition Program are accredited by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). The school is also a member of the Association of Independent Schools in New England (AISNE).

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18. The Kennedy-Donovan Center

A large nonprofit organization that provides services to children and adults with developmental disabilities, the KDC has several locations throughout Massachusetts. They offer a wide range of programs and services, including education, behavioral health, employment training, and more.

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19. Center For Applied Behavioral Instruction

The Center for Applied Behavioral Instruction (CABI) is a special needs school located in Massachusetts. CABI specializes in working with students with autism, and their families. 

The school provides a full range of services, from early intervention to high school transition planning. CABI is committed to helping each student reach their full potential and become active members of their community.

CABI offers a variety of programs and services to meet the needs of each individual student. Early intervention programs are designed to support infants, toddlers, and preschoolers as they develop the skills needed for success in school and in life. 

Transition planning services help students and families prepare for the move from high school to adulthood. CABI also offers a variety of support services, including social skills training, behavior management, and individualized education plans.

The staff at CABI is highly trained and experienced in working with students with autism. They use evidence-based practices to individualize instruction and support each student’s unique needs. The staff works closely with families to ensure that they are involved in all aspects of their child’s education.

CABI is accredited by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The school is also a member of the Autism Society of America and the Association for Behavior Analysis International.

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20. Anchor Academy

Anchor Academy is a top autism school in Massachusetts that specializes in educating children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The school provides a comprehensive and individualized education to meet the needs of each student. 

Anchor Academy is committed to helping students with ASD reach their full potential and become productive members of society.

The school offers a variety of programs and services to meet the needs of its students. These include:

  • A comprehensive educational program that is individualized to meet the needs of each child.
  • A wide range of therapeutic services to support students in their learning.
  • A social skills program to help students develop the skills they need to interact with others effectively.
  • A Transition Services program to help students prepare for life after graduation.

Anchor Academy is accredited by the National Autism Society and has been recognized by the Massachusetts Department of Education as a top autism school.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Financial Aids For Autism Students In Massachusetts?

There are financial aids available for autistic students in Massachusetts. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education provides funding to public schools to support the education of students with disabilities, including autism. 

In addition, the state provides funding to private schools that serve students with disabilities, including autism.

The Autism Scholarship Program is a state-funded program that provides scholarships to families of students with autism who attend private schools. 

Families can receive up to $20,000 per year per child to offset the cost of tuition and other expenses at a private school.

The Massachusetts Down Payment Assistance Program is a state-funded program that provides low-interest loans to families of students with disabilities who are attending private schools. 

Families can receive up to $15,000 per year per child for a maximum of four years. The loan does not have to be repaid if the student attends a public school within two years of completing their education at a private school.

The Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) is an organization that provides information and support to families of students with disabilities, including autism. SEPACs are located in every school district in Massachusetts.

How Long Are Autism Schools In Massachusetts?

There are many schools that cater to children with autism in Massachusetts. The length of time that these schools are open varies. Some are only open for a few hours a day while others are open all day long. There are also some schools that operate on a year-round basis.

Some of the schools that only operate for a few hours a day include the Riverview School, which is located in South Hadley, and the Developmental Learning Center, which is located in Worcester. These two schools both offer programs that last for two or three hours each day.

There are also several schools that are open all day long. These include the New England Center for Children, which is located in Southborough, and the Kennedy Day School, which is located in Boston.

Conclusion

There are many great autism schools in Massachusetts, and the top 20 are listed here. These schools offer a wide range of services and programs to help students with autism succeed. If you’re looking for an autism school in Massachusetts, be sure to check out these top 20 options.

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