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
Angie New
Executive Director
Stefanie Treadway
Associate Director
Erin Ransom
Support Services Director
Ellen Adamo
Director of ABA
Andrew Peck
Director of Education
Gerald Ledford Jr.
Day Services Coordinator
Sherry Valdespino
Director of Human Resources
Kaitlin Karins
Director of Development
Therapists
Sarah Griffard
Occupational Therapist
Vanessa Mann
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
Patti Hamill
Physical Therapist
Jamie Zimmerman
Speech Language Pathologist
Elysia Schlag
Board Certified Behavior Analyst
Elysia Schlag
Board Certified Behavior Analyst
Teachers
Ericka Vance
Teacher
Abby Labeda
Teacher
Megan Rampani
Teacher & Board Certified Behavior Analyst
Support Services Leadership
Lauren Bolte
Day Services Activity Supervisor
Allison Shepard
Qualified Developmental Disability Professional
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