Utah has been ranked second in the nation for its high number of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, with one in every 53 children affected. Therefore, finding the best autism schools in Utah is crucial so your child can get the help they need to lead a happy and successful life. If you live in the state, here are some of the top options for autism programs in Utah that you can look into further.

Utah has many children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) for several reasons. It is important to note that the exact reasons for the high prevalence of ASD in Utah are still being researched and may involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and sociodemographic factors. Here are a few possible factors that contribute to the higher rates:

1. Increased awareness and improved screening practices: Utah has made significant efforts to raise awareness about autism and improve early detection and diagnosis through effective screening practices. This increased awareness and proactive approach have likely contributed to more children being diagnosed.
2. Access to healthcare and educational resources: Utah has a robust healthcare system and provides access to a wide range of healthcare services, including specialized diagnostic and intervention services for children with autism. The availability of such resources can lead to more accurate diagnoses and support for children with ASD.
3. Strong support networks and advocacy: Utah has a strong network of support organizations, advocacy groups, and community resources dedicated to autism. These resources are crucial in raising awareness, supporting individuals and families affected by autism, and promoting early intervention and educational opportunities.
4. Cultural and demographic factors: Some studies suggest that certain cultural and demographic factors, such as higher birth rates, larger family sizes, and increased maternal education, may contribute to the higher prevalence of ASD in specific populations, including Utah.

It is important to remember that the exact reasons for the high prevalence of ASD in Utah are still being studied, and more research is needed to understand the contributing factors fully.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a recommendation or endorsement of any specific autism schools in Utah. The author has not visited or examined any of the schools mentioned in this post, and the information provided should not be considered a substitute for professional advice or expertise. Always research and carefully evaluate any autism school before making a decision.

Skilled Teachers

All of the skilled teachers at APBA are not only licensed to teach children with autism, but they also have experience and knowledge on how to get the best out of their students. While some teachers may be better at working with particular students or on specific aspects of the school curriculum, all students learn and grow as people while attending APBA. Plus, our small student-to-teacher ratio is an excellent way to provide individualized attention to each child.

Dedicated Knacks

It’s worth noting that Utah has eight schools with dedicated facilities for students with autism. These schools are designed to help students build skills, manage their needs, and make better transitions into other settings. It’s also important to note that these schools have a higher student-to-teacher ratio than other institutions – which can make a big difference. Many autistic kids thrive when given the right level of one-on-one attention. In addition, many of these schools offer on-site occupational and speech therapy – another advantage over some public schools. Finally, most parents report that the social interaction opportunities are much better in private school environments than at home or public school classes with typically developing peers.

Here is a list of some of Utah’s best autism schools

1. Carmen B. Pingree Autism Center of Learning

2. Utah Autism Academy

3. ScenicView Academy

4. Autism & Behavioral Intervention

6. New Focus Academy

7. Utah Autism Academy Orem Campus 

8. Cornerstone School 

9. Spectrum Academy- Pleasant Grove, UT campus

Carmen B. Pingree Autism Center of Learning

What’s a common issue that most people with autism have? They often have a hard time understanding social cues and engaging with others. While one of the best ways to help autistic kids learn better is to have them interact with other children, it’s not always possible in school or at home. The good news is that they can compensate for some of those lost opportunities when they visit Carmen B. Pingree’s Autism Center of Learning. With over 80 years of experience providing therapy services for students on the Spectrum, their staff is well-versed in everything from teaching manners to helping kids understand math concepts.

Address: 780 Guardsman Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States

Utah Autism Academy

There are a lot of schools in the Salt Lake City area that can accommodate students with autism and other developmental disabilities. At Utah Autism Academy, we have highly trained teachers who specialize in helping autistic children learn to be more social and improve their self-esteem. Our comprehensive teaching methods encourage high expectations, ensuring students do their best while working towards their goals. For parents of kids with special needs, find a school capable of meeting your child’s needs so you can feel confident sending them there daily. In addition, we offer individualized education plans and counseling services to help students stay on track with their academic studies and personal development.

If you want your child to grow up feeling confident in themselves and accomplished as they move into adulthood, contact us today!

Address: 7434 State St, Midvale, UT 84047, United States

ScenicView Academy

We provide comprehensive educational programs and an individualized treatment program tailored to the needs of each student on campus. In addition, a designated care staff member will work one-on-one with your child and their family to support the transition back home at the end of their stay. The ScenicView Academy team comprises therapists, nurses, teachers, special education assistants, and other experts passionate about helping kids succeed academically and socially.

Address: 5455 River Run Dr, Provo, UT 84604, United States

Autism & Behavioral Intervention Utah

Specialize in ABA Therapy and Autism

ABA plans and programs. We have a comprehensive program that works with all ages! So, if you’re looking for autism schools in Utah, we’re the ones to call.

Services

Occupational Therapy

This is a highly sought-after service. You will love our OT! 

Social Skills

We use ABA and other techniques to teach critical social skills 

Behavior Reduction Plans

Yelling, fighting, anxiety? We can help.

Behavioral Intervention

We train children how to deal with behavioral challenges 

Food Interventions

We have fun ways to help your picky eater 

Address: 12637 S 265 W #300, Draper, UT 84020, United States

New Focus Academy

Kids with autism need a school setting that values their uniqueness and allows them to shine. That’s why our all-inclusive, autism-focused New Focus Academy created a public charter school; New Focus Academy is designed to give your child with autism an education that fits them as they are. We provide IEPs (Individualized Education Plans) that address each student’s needs so they can learn at their own pace and advance quicker than regular public schools allow. Additionally, we offer therapy services, behavioral intervention plans, social skills groups, and adaptive PE classes. And because we don’t focus on traditional subjects like English or math, you don’t have to worry about your child getting lost in the crowd.

Address: 1268 N Valley Heights Cir, Heber City, UT 84032, United States

Utah Autism Academy Orem Campus 

We’re located on the beautiful campus of Orem High School and offer a free, state-of-the-art academic center with experienced teachers who specialize in teaching children with autism.

*Independent study opportunities are available to students. 

*Our Partners In Learning (PIL) program provides complimentary before and after-school care for Middle School students. *Specialized therapeutic programming includes occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, social skills groups, and parent training.

*Our mission is to create an environment where every child feels safe to learn.

Address: 

1875 S. Geneva Road Orem, UT 84058 801-437-0490

7434 S. State Street Midvale, UT 84047 801-456-9955

Cornerstone School 

At Cornerstone School, the approach is individualized and tailored to the unique needs of each child. The staff utilizes proximal facilitation teaching strategies that help students learn skills one-on-one by modeling desired behaviors, shaping them into smaller steps, and providing immediate feedback with reinforcement when expected behaviors are displayed. Positive reinforcement is utilized, so the focus is on positive behavior rather than those things that need to be worked on. Teaching is done through hands-on activities that allow children to explore their surroundings while gaining new knowledge. Students also have an opportunity to participate in enrichment classes such as reading and math and community service projects like Habitat for Humanity.

Address: 1119 E 10655 S, Sandy, UT 84094, United States

Spectrum Academy- Pleasant Grove, UT campus

Spectrum Academy offers a specialty program tailored to the specific needs of students on the autism spectrum. The school offers day and residential options, with licensed teachers, therapists, and behavior specialists offering support. Spectrum’s setting is near mountains and wildlife, providing therapeutic benefits and an attractive learning environment. 

Programs are based on individualized plans created by Spectrum’s development team that meet every student’s academic needs and abilities. Spectrum Academy has been successfully working with children with high-functioning forms of autism since its founding in 2001. Spectrum Academy- can find five locations across the state in Pleasant Grove, Salt Lake City, Sandy/West Jordan, St. George, and Orem. So if you’re looking for something more unique than traditional schooling environments may offer, Spectrum Academy is worth checking out!

Address: 867 S 800 W, Pleasant Grove, UT 84062, United States

Summary

There are many resources available to parents and guardians of children with autism. With careful research, you can find the best schools that provide a top-notch education, offer excellent specialized services, and are nurturing to kids with autism. If your child is on the Spectrum and they have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), be sure to work closely with your child’s teacher. Communication is key!

**The 101 Autism blog writers are not professionals in autism. Our blog readers should contact an expert! For a qualified opinion.