Autism schools in Florida

Introduction

Updated: November 2025

Finding the right autism school in Florida can feel overwhelming. The state has a growing number of public charter schools, private programs, and university-based centers that specialize in supporting autistic students and their families. This 2025 guide highlights some of the best autism schools and programs in Florida, including their strengths, services, age ranges, and how to contact them. Use this as a starting point, then visit and talk with each school to see what fits your child best. If you’re comparing options beyond Florida, explore our full list of autism schools by state, Looking at moving or comparing services? See the best autism schools in California (2025)

Public & Charter Autism Schools in Florida

Palm Beach School for Autism

Palm Beach School for Autism is a public charter school in Lake Worth that serves students ages 3–21 with autism spectrum disorder. As a nonprofit, tuition-free school, it offers a highly individualized, data-driven program with small classes, intensive behavioral support, and strong family involvement. Students follow an academic curriculum alongside communication, life skills, and vocational training.

Pros: Tuition-free charter; wide age range (PK–12 + transition); strong focus on life skills and community partnerships.
Cons: Limited seats & waitlists are common; daily commute may be challenging for families outside Palm Beach County.
Website: Palm Beach School for Autism
Address: 8480 Lantana Road, Lake Worth, FL 33467
Phone: (561) 533-9917

South Florida Autism Charter School (SFACS)

South Florida Autism Charter School (SFACS) is a public charter school with campuses in Hialeah and South Dade. It supports autistic students in grades K–12 from Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. SFACS combines academics with intensive behavioral, communication, and functional skills instruction, overseen by experienced special educators and behavior analysts.

Pros: Dedicated entirely to autistic students; multiple campuses; strong reputation in South Florida.
Cons: Primarily serves Miami-Dade/Broward residents; high demand for spots.
Website: South Florida Autism Charter School
Hialeah Campus: 3751 W. 108th St., Hialeah, FL 33018 — Phone: (305) 823-2700
South Dade Campus: 18050 Homestead Ave., Miami, FL 33157 — Phone: (786) 573-7020

Princeton House Charter School

Princeton House Charter School in Orlando is a public charter school focused specifically on children with autism in preschool and elementary grades. The school uses a multidisciplinary approach with low student-to-staff ratios and intensive academic, language, social, and behavioral supports.

Pros: Autism-focused charter; small classes; strong speech, OT, and behavior support.
Cons: Mainly PK–5; families may need to plan for middle/high school transitions.
Website: Princeton House Charter School
Address: 1166 Lee Road, Orlando, FL 32810
Phone: (407) 523-7121

Private Autism Schools in Florida

Autism Academy of South Florida

Autism Academy of South Florida is a private school in Davie that provides ABA-based education for autistic students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Each student receives an individualized education plan (IEP-style plan) with embedded speech, occupational therapy, and social skills training.

Pros: ABA-focused academics; strong therapy integration; secure, structured environment.
Cons: Private tuition; may require scholarships or state funding (such as Florida scholarships) to be affordable.
Website: Autism Academy of South Florida
Address: 6301 SW 21st Street, Davie, FL 33317
Phone: (954) 654-0908

The Victory Center for Autism & Related Disabilities

The Victory Center for Autism & Related Disabilities is a private nonprofit program in South Florida that offers intensive, ABA-based education and therapy for children with autism and related disabilities. The school focuses on individualized instruction, communication, and functional life skills.

Pros: Nonprofit model; strong ABA curriculum; individualized IEP-style programming.
Cons: Private tuition; limited seats; families should ask about scholarship options.
Website: The Victory Center
Address: Check the website for current campus location and mailing address.

The Puzzle Peace Academy

The Puzzle Peace Academy is a private school in Brandon that combines education and therapy for autistic students. The program is grounded in ABA principles, and students receive individualized plans plus speech, occupational therapy, and social skills groups.

Pros: Strong ABA foundation; close collaboration with families; focus on communication and behavior.
Cons: Private tuition; serves mainly the Tampa Bay area.
Website: Puzzle Peace Academy
Address: 109 Margaret Street, Brandon, FL 33511
Phone: (813) 413-3100

The Broach School

The Broach School is a network of private schools across Florida that serves students with diverse learning needs, including autism. Programs blend academics with individualized supports such as ABA-informed strategies, speech, and occupational therapy, depending on the campus.

Pros: Multiple campuses statewide; flexible programming for different needs.
Cons: Programs and services vary by location; tuition and scholarship availability differ.
Website: The Broach School
Address & Phone: See each campus listing on the website.

The Learning Experience Academy (Clearwater)

The Learning Experience Academy in Clearwater provides early education and therapy services for young children, including those on the autism spectrum. The program uses individualized lesson plans and may integrate speech and occupational therapy, depending on student needs.

Pros: Early-childhood focus; structured routines; supports both typical and neurodivergent learners.
Cons: Primarily for younger children; not a full K–12 autism school.
Address: 2505 North McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater, FL 33761

The Brookeside Academy

The Brookeside Academy in Winter Springs provides individualized education and therapy services to autistic children. Following ABA principles, the school works with small groups and uses a mix of academic, communication, and sensory supports.

Pros: Small, specialized setting; strong emphasis on individualized instruction.
Cons: Limited capacity; mainly serves the Orlando–Seminole County area.
Address: 150 Tuskawilla Road, Winter Springs, FL 32708
Phone: (407) 706-7556

University & Nonprofit Autism Centers with School Programs

Ann Storck Center

The Ann Storck Center in Fort Lauderdale is a nonprofit organization that supports children and adults with developmental disabilities, including autism. The center offers early intervention, a specialized school program for ages three to 22, and comprehensive therapies such as speech, occupational, and physical therapy.

Pros: Serves a wide age range; strong clinical and therapeutic support; long-standing reputation in Broward County.
Cons: Limited enrollment; families should ask directly about eligibility and waitlists.
Website: Ann Storck Center
Address: 1790 SW 43rd Way, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33317
Phone: (954) 584-8000

The Scott Center for Autism Treatment at Florida Tech

The Scott Center for Autism Treatment at Florida Tech in Melbourne is a university-based center that provides clinical services, assessments, and treatment programs using applied behavior analysis (ABA). While it is not a traditional K–12 school, it offers intensive therapy, parent training, and support that can supplement a student’s school placement.

Pros: Evidence-based ABA services; university-backed research; strong assessment and treatment programs.
Cons: Not a full-time school; typically used alongside a public or private school placement.
Website: The Scott Center for Autism Treatment
Address: 150 W. University Blvd., Melbourne, FL 32901
Phone: (321) 674-8106

Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) at UCF

The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) at the University of Central Florida is part of Florida’s statewide CARD network. CARD provides free, nonresidential services for autistic individuals and their families, including training for educators, consultation, social groups, and resource navigation. It does not operate as a school but is an important support alongside school programs.

Pros: Free support services; regional reach; great partner for any school placement.
Cons: Not a classroom or school; services depend on eligibility and regional coverage.
Website: UCF CARD & statewide info at Florida CARD Map
Address: 4000 Central Florida Blvd., Orlando, FL 32816
Phone: (407) 823-6011

The Learning Academy at The Els Center of Excellence

The Learning Academy at The Els Center of Excellence in Jupiter is a nonprofit charter school for autistic students. The program focuses on academics, communication, social skills, and transition planning for adulthood. Students often have access to specialized therapies and enrichment programs such as art, music, and physical education.

Pros: Purpose-built campus; strong transition focus; close partnership with the broader Els Center of Excellence programs.
Cons: Limited capacity; regional to Palm Beach County and surrounding areas.
Website: The Learning Academy
Address: 18370 Limestone Creek Road, Jupiter, FL 33458
Phone: (561) 320-9515

Autism Boarding Schools Serving Florida Families

New Focus Academy (Utah)

New Focus Academy in Utah is a residential boarding program that serves autistic and neurodivergent teens from across the United States, including Florida. The school blends academics, life skills, social skills coaching, and therapeutic support in a structured, supportive environment.

Pros: 24/7 structure; intensive social and life skills training; small, supportive community.
Cons: Out-of-state placement; residential programs are expensive and may require insurance or district funding.
Website: New Focus Academy
Phone: (844) 313-6749

Seven Stars

Seven Stars is a residential treatment and adventure therapy program for autistic and neurodivergent teens. Students participate in on-campus therapeutic programming and off-campus outdoor activities, often as a short-term or transitional placement.

Pros: Combines clinical treatment with outdoor experiences; highly individualized plans.
Cons: Not a long-term day school; out-of-state and typically high cost.
Website: Seven Stars
Phone: See the website for current admissions phone numbers.

Comparison Table

School / Program	Location	Age / Grades	Type	Key Programs	Contact
Palm Beach School for Autism	Lake Worth, FL	PK–12 + transition	Public charter, nonprofit	Academic + behavioral support, life skills, Project Next	(561) 533-9917 • pbsfa.org
South Florida Autism Charter School (SFACS)	Hialeah & South Dade, FL	K–12	Public charter	Academic + therapeutic services, behavior support, social skills	(305) 823-2700 • sfacs.org
Princeton House Charter School	Orlando, FL	PK–5 (autism focus)	Public charter	Small classes, speech & OT, behavior intervention	(407) 523-7121 • princeton-house.org
Autism Academy of South Florida	Davie, FL	K–12	Private school	ABA-based academics, speech, OT, social skills	(954) 654-0908 • autismacademyofsouthflorida.com
Puzzle Peace Academy	Brandon, FL	Varies by program	Private school	ABA, speech, OT, social skills	(813) 413-3100 • puzzlepeaceacademy.com
The Learning Academy (Els Center of Excellence)	Jupiter, FL	Middle & high school (autism)	Charter / nonprofit	Academic + transition skills, therapies, enrichment	(561) 320-9515 • thelearningacademy.org
Ann Storck Center	Fort Lauderdale, FL	Under 3–22 (school program)	Nonprofit center	School, early intervention, speech, OT, PT	(954) 584-8000 • annstorckcenter.org
New Focus Academy	Utah (serves FL families)	Teens	Residential boarding	School, life skills, social skills, therapy	(844) 313-6749 • newfocusacademy.com

Additional Resources for Autism Education in Florida

Beyond schools, Florida families can tap into statewide autism resources:

Florida Department of Education – Exceptional Student Education (ESE): Information on special education rights, IEPs, and state policies.
Florida CARD Network: Regional Centers for Autism and Related Disabilities offer free training and support for families and educators.
Autism Society of Florida: Advocacy, support groups, and educational events for families and self-advocates.
Local school districts: Every Florida district has an ESE department that can explain placement options, evaluations, and services.

Conclusion

There is no single “best” autism school in Florida that fits every child. Some students thrive in specialized public charter schools; others do better in smaller private programs or a combination of school plus university-based therapy services. As you explore options, look closely at staff training, class size, communication with families, and how each program measures progress. Visiting schools in person and talking with other parents in your area can help you find a setting where your child is respected, supported, and able to grow.

Frequently Asked Questions About Autism Schools in Florida

What are the best autism schools in Florida in 2025?

The top autism schools and programs in Florida often mentioned by families include:

Public & Charter Options:

Palm Beach School for Autism (Lake Worth) – PK–12 + transition, tuition-free charter
South Florida Autism Charter School (SFACS) (Hialeah & South Dade) – K–12 autism charter
Princeton House Charter School (Orlando) – PK–5 autism-focused charter

Private / Nonprofit Schools:

Autism Academy of South Florida (Davie)
Puzzle Peace Academy (Brandon)
The Learning Academy at The Els Center of Excellence (Jupiter)
The Victory Center and The Broach School (multiple locations)

“Best” depends on your child’s age, support needs, and where you live in Florida.

How much do autism schools and programs cost in Florida?

Public and charter autism schools (like Palm Beach School for Autism, SFACS, and Princeton House) are tuition-free for eligible students as part of Florida’s public education system.

Private schools can vary widely, but rough ranges are:

Day programs: $15,000–$40,000 per year
Intensive therapeutic programs: $30,000–$70,000 per year

Many families in Florida also use state scholarships (such as the Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities), private scholarships, or payment plans to help with costs.

What age groups do autism schools in Florida serve?

Age ranges depend on the program:

Early childhood (3–5): Palm Beach School for Autism, Princeton House, early intervention programs.
Elementary & middle school: Palm Beach School for Autism, SFACS, Autism Academy of South Florida, Puzzle Peace Academy, The Learning Academy.
High school & transition (14–21): Palm Beach School for Autism (Project Next), SFACS, The Learning Academy, some Broach School campuses.

It’s common for families to use different schools or programs at different stages of their child’s education.

How do I apply to an autism school or program in Florida?

The process depends on whether the program is public/charter or private:

For public and charter schools:

Contact your local school district’s Exceptional Student Education (ESE) department.
Request an evaluation (or share an existing diagnosis) and ask about autism-specific schools or programs.
Participate in an IEP meeting to discuss placement and services.
For charters like Palm Beach School for Autism or SFACS, complete their application and follow lottery/waitlist procedures.

For private schools:

Contact the school directly and request a tour.
Submit recent evaluations, reports, and school records.
Complete school-specific application forms and ask about scholarships or funding options.

Do autism schools in Florida accept insurance or state scholarships?

Public and charter schools: Tuition is covered, but families may still use health insurance for outside therapies.

Private schools:

Some accept Florida’s Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities and other state scholarships.
Therapy services (speech, OT, ABA) may be billed to insurance in some settings.
Always ask each school which scholarships and insurance plans they accept and what is covered.

Are there autism boarding schools available for Florida families?

Florida has limited in-state residential school options specifically for autism, so many families look at out-of-state programs such as:

New Focus Academy – autism and neurodivergent teen boarding school.
Seven Stars – residential treatment plus outdoor adventure programming.

These programs can be expensive. In some cases, school districts or insurance may help with funding if the placement is considered educationally necessary. Always get legal and educational advocacy support before pursuing an out-of-state residential option.

What support resources exist for autism families in Florida?

Florida offers multiple layers of support beyond school:

Florida CARD Centers: Free training and consultation for families and professionals.
Florida Department of Education (ESE): Guidance on IEPs, evaluation, and placement.
Autism Society of Florida and local nonprofits: Support groups, workshops, and family events.
Medicaid waivers & state services: Possible funding for therapies, respite, and support services.

Tip: Start by contacting your local CARD center and your school district’s ESE department—they can help you map out options in your area.

More autism school guides in the U.S.

Before choosing a school, make sure you understand your child’s diagnosis

DrorAr101

My name is Adi, and I am the proud parent of Saar, a lively 17-year-old who happens to have autism. I have created a blog, 101Autism.com, with the aim to share our family's journey and offer guidance to those who may be going through similar experiences. Saar, much like any other teenager, has a passion for football, cycling, and music. He is also a budding pianist and enjoys painting. However, his world is somewhat distinct. Loud sounds can be overwhelming, sudden changes can be unsettling, and understanding emotions can be challenging. Nevertheless, Saar is constantly learning and growing, and his unwavering resilience is truly remarkable.