The Center for Autism Education is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded in 2002. Our founder, Amy Buie, was determined to open an agency that would allow individuals to reach their fullest potential in all areas of life, regardless of ability. When we first opened our doors, in a strip mall in O'Fallon, we were serving 10 students. Now, more than twenty years later, we have multiple locations and we’ve served more than 350 individuals and their families.
The Center for Autism Education has become a staple in the special needs community. We pride ourselves on providing the best possible quality of care to our students and adult consumers with autism and other special needs. What sets us apart from other programs in the community is that we do not discriminate based on behavior. Our certified staff and therapists are trained to deal with intense behaviors including aggression, self-injurious behavior, and property destruction. Our staff members work tirelessly to reduce the occurrence of unwanted behavior and teach replacement behaviors and coping skills so that our consumers can be successful in their school/program environment as well as at home and in the community.
We can't do any of this without your help.
Consider donating today, every little bit helps. THANK YOU!
Our Mission, Vision, and Values
The mission of The Center for Autism Education is to accommodate the needs of everyone we serve in a respectful, supportive, and safe environment.
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
Ellen Adamo
Hanne Hawkins
Gerald Ledford Jr.
Andrew Peck
Erin Ransom
Stefanie Treadway
Sherry Valdespino
Therapists
Laura Berkowitz
Sarah Griffard
Patti Hamill
Vanessa Mann
Megan Rampani
Jamie Zimmerman
Teachers
Joe Ilardi
Abby Labeda
Taylor Burkemper
Ericka Vance
Support Services Leadership
Lee LaPointe
Michele Parmeley
Board of Directors
Interim President
Treasurer
Carrie Kremer
Secretary