About Us

The Center for Autism Education is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2002 by Amy Buie, who was driven by a vision to create an agency where individuals could reach their fullest potential in all areas of life—regardless of ability. When we first opened our doors in a small strip mall in O’Fallon, we served just 10 students. More than two decades later, we’ve grown to multiple locations and have proudly served over 350 individuals and their families.

Today, The Center for Autism Education is a trusted and valued resource in the special needs community. We are committed to providing the highest quality care to both students and adult consumers with autism and other developmental disabilities. What truly sets us apart is our inclusive approach—we do not turn individuals away based on challenging behavior.

Our certified staff and therapists are specially trained to support individuals with intense behaviors, including aggression, self-injury, and property destruction. They work tirelessly to reduce these behaviors while teaching positive coping strategies and replacement skills. Our goal is to help each individual succeed—not only in our programs, but also at home and in the broader community.

To meet the diverse needs of those we serve, CAE offers a range of specialized programs tailored to different age groups, support levels, and goals. Whether you're exploring services for a child, teen, or adult, our programs are designed to foster growth, independence, and meaningful engagement.

We can't do any of this without your help.

Consider donating today, every little bit helps. THANK YOU!

Living Our Mission Every Day

The mission of The Center for Autism Education is to accommodate the needs of everyone we serve in a respectful, supportive, and safe environment. This guiding principle shapes everything we do—from personalized programs to everyday interactions—ensuring each individual feels valued and empowered to thrive.

Acceptance

Everyone deserves to be treated with respect and have an exceptional quality of life.

Inclusion

Everyone deserves the opportunity to actively participate in their community.

Growth

Everyone deserves personalized behavior support to improve functional, vocational, & academic skills.

Meet Our Team

Administration

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Angie New
Executive Director

17

Stefanie Treadway
Associate Director

4

Erin Ransom
Support Services Director

12

Ellen Adamo
Director of ABA

15

Andrew Peck
Director of Education

3

Gerald Ledford Jr.
Day Services Coordinator

18

Sherry Valdespino
Director of Human Resources

19

Kaitlin Karins
Director of Development

Therapists

10

Sarah Griffard
Occupational Therapist

11

Vanessa Mann
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

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Patti Hamill
Physical Therapist

6

Jamie Zimmerman
Speech Language Pathologist

7

Elysia Schlag
Board Certified Behavior Analyst

8

Veronica Delicath
Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Teachers

14

Ericka Vance
Teacher

13

Abby Labeda
Teacher

9

Megan Rampani
Teacher & Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Support Services Leadership

1

Lauren Bolte
Day Services Activity Supervisor

5

Allison Shepard
Qualified Developmental Disability Professional

2

Laura Fredricks
Qualified Developmental Disability Professional

Board of Directors

Robert Goeltz Jr.

President

Jay Woodside

Vice President

Rex Fennessey

Treasurer

Carrie Kremer

Secretary

Victoria Babb

Rocky Reitmeyer

Jackie Mucha

Don Hermann

Daniel LaGarce