Katelyn’s Story:
A Sparkle That Shines Brighter Every Day
Katelyn started at The Center for Autism Education when she was just 8 years old. At the time, she was having a tough time communicating, managing her emotions, and handling daily routines. Her school district and family knew she needed a place where she could grow and feel supported — and that’s exactly what she found at CAE.
Over the next 13 years, Katelyn made amazing progress. She learned to use a communication device, started helping around the house, and even picked up skills like folding laundry and making simple meals. One of the biggest turning points? She no longer needed to wear a protective helmet — a huge milestone that showed just how far she had come.
Katelyn graduated from CAE’s school program and now attends our Adult Day Center, where she continues to shine. She’s 21 now, and her days are filled with learning, laughter, and meaningful connection. Her confidence has grown, and her smile is as bright as ever.
“Katelyn’s smile is infectious and radiates so much light onto others. She sparkles, even when she’s not having a shiny day. Not having to wear her helmet is huge — I can finally see her beautiful curly hair.”
— Jodi, Katelyn’s Mother
Tommy’s Story:
Finding His Voice, Sharing His Joy
Tommy's Story:
Finding His Voice, Sharing His Story
When Tommy first came to the Center for Autism Education as a kindergartener, his world was full of feelings he struggled to express. With a limited vocabulary, frustration often followed him through the day—he had so much to say, but the words just weren’t there yet. This frustration led to multiple meltdowns daily and he began to try to run away from people.
At CAE through patient teaching, encouragement, and personalized support, Tommy’s vocabulary began to grow. And with it, something even more beautiful happened—his personality began to shine through.
Today, Tommy is blossoming. He is ready to greet everyone he sees, has a growing sense of independence and a sense of humor that keeps everyone around him smiling. Where words once felt far away, now they flow with confidence and purpose.
“The biggest joy for me was the first time he verbally requested to spend the night at ‘Gramma’s house’ over the phone. He has always loved coming here, but to hear the words that he wanted to come and spend the night was a tearful moment for me.”
— Lisa, Tommy’s Grandmother.
Kayla's Story:
Full of Growth, Kindness, and Dance Moves
Kayla started coming to The Center for Autism Education when she was 18 years old. Back then, she was working through some big challenges — including outbursts, trouble walking, and difficulty with self-control. But from day one, CAE felt like the right place, with a team that supported not just Kayla, but her whole family.
Over the years, Kayla has come such a long way. With the steady support of the CAE team, Kayla has made incredible progress — she not only relearned how to walk, but along the way, she discovered something she truly loves: dancing. Whether it’s at a party or anytime music plays, Kayla is quick to get moving and light up the room. Over the years, she’s become more independent, patient, and helpful — especially with older adults — and she communicates clearly using ASL or by writing things down. You can see her personality shine through with more confidence every day.
Now in her mid thirties, Kayla still attends CAE’s Adult Day Program and continues to thrive. She helps out at home, enjoys going to community events, and is a total joy to be around. Her fun personality shines through in everything she does — and if there’s a party, you’ll definitely find her on the dance floor.
“Kayla has become a wonderful person with all kinds of sweet personalities and loves to dance at any party.”
— LaJoyce, Kayla’s Caregiver
Michael’s Story:
A Future Full of Hope
Michael’s Story:
Bringing Joy Back to the Whole Family
When Michael joined The Center for Autism Education, his family was searching for the right kind of support — a place where he could feel safe, understood, and begin to thrive. At the time, Michael was nearly nonverbal and often became overwhelmed by frustration, which led to challenging behaviors. Traditional school settings weren’t meeting his needs, and his district recommended CAE as a better fit. From the very beginning, it was clear that this was a place where Michael could begin a new chapter.
With the structure and support of a consistent routine and a compassionate team, Michael began to grow in ways his family once thought impossible. He became more comfortable around others, started participating in group activities, and began to enjoy community outings. One of the most memorable milestones came when he was able to lay still for nearly an hour during a medical procedure — a calm and focused moment that spoke volumes about how far he’s come.
Today, Michael continues to thrive at CAE. He is happier, more at ease, and far less overwhelmed by the things that once triggered him. Most importantly, his family no longer sees residential placement as the only option. They see a bright, hopeful future — with Michael at home, right where he belongs.
“The center has been probably the best thing that could have happened to Michael and to us. When Michael started there, it seemed like there would come a point where we could no longer handle him. We thought placement would be his only future. That is not the case anymore. With the changes in Michael thanks to the center, we now see a future with Michael with us at home.”
— Michael’s family
Tanya’s Story:
A Second Home at CAE
Tanya found her second home when she transferred to The Center for Autism Education during high school. She had trouble regulating her emotions and it was a big transition, but from the very beginning, CAE felt like a place where she truly belonged — a place where she was seen, supported, and celebrated for exactly who she is.
Now, more than 10 years later, Tanya is still part of the CAE family. She’s built strong connections, grown in confidence, and continues to thrive in an environment where she feels safe and accepted. For Tanya and her family, CAE has become more than just a program — it’s a source of hope, joy, and stability.
“Every day I thank God for The Center for Autism and its staff. It is a place where my daughter is accepted for who she is. I am ever so grateful for the staff…they not only make a difference in my daughter’s life but my life as well. Our world is small and you make it bigger and brighter. Every night when you lay your head down on your pillow, know that you have done a good deed and have helped another person along the way. Feel good about yourselves.”
— Tanya’s parents Bob and Geri
Emma’s Story:
Bringing Joy Back to the Whole Family
Emma’s Story:
Bringing Joy Back to the Whole Family
Emma came to The Center for Autism Education as a teenager during a time of uncertainty and transition. Her family had been searching for the right environment — one that would offer structure, support, and above all, acceptance. At CAE, Emma found more than just a school. She found her rhythm, her confidence, and her joy.
With the help of her dedicated team and a consistent routine she loves, Emma began to thrive. And as she grew more joyful and independent, her entire family felt the change.
“The first thing I thought of is how happy Emma has been lately. She loves her school and her schedule and all of her special helpers. What words can I use to thank you for that? We’ve waited a long time to have our happy Emma back. You know, you’ve heard it before, that when you support a child like mine, you support an entire family. I can’t imagine where we’d be without you! Please know that every day makes such a difference in our lives. It puts quality into her life. It provides peace of mind to her parents and a sense of normalcy for her siblings. It is everything!!!!”
— Emma’s Mother Christine
Kaleb’s Story:
A Full Circle of Growth and Belonging
When Kaleb first came to The Center for Autism Education, he was searching for connection, confidence, and support. CAE quickly became a place where he could grow not only academically, but emotionally and socially. With personalized care, patient guidance, and an environment where he could finally be truly understood, Kaleb began to thrive.
Thanks to the skills and confidence he built at CAE, Kaleb was able to successfully transition back into his home school district — where he proudly graduated with his class. It was a milestone made possible by a community that believed in him every step of the way.
Today, Kaleb continues to grow as part of CAE’s Adult Day Program, surrounded by familiar faces who have walked with him through every chapter of his journey.
“CAE has made it possible for Kaleb to develop life long friendships, not only with students but with the faculty as well. It means so much as a parent to know that so many people care about him and have his best interests in mind. I will take all the people in his corner I can get. As a parent of a child with special needs you truly only want your child to be happy and as successful as they can be. CAE has been instrumental for Kaleb. You have become his second family. Thanks to the support he received at CAE, Kaleb was able to successfully transition back to Fort Zumwalt and receive his diploma. He now attends CAE's adult Day Program where he is thriving. We are so thankful for CAE!”
— Kaleb’s Mother Amy
Joey’s Story:
Harvesting Hope and Confidence
Joey’s Story:
Harvesting Hope and Confidence
Joey’s story with the Center for Autism Education began when he was just five years old! Over the years, CAE became more than just a school to him—it became a second home. With the help of dedicated staff and compassionate therapists, Joey excelled in speech, physical, and occupational therapies. Each small victory added up, building his skills, his confidence, and his independence.
Joey’s progress didn’t happen by chance. It came from years of support, care, and encouragement from the teachers and therapists who believed in him every step of the way. Today, Joey works on his family farm—a job that requires hard work, routine, and responsibility. And he does it all with confidence, self-assurance, and the skills he gained at CAE.
“Joey started at CAE when he was five and graduated at age 19. Joey excelled with speech, physical and occupational therapies in so many ways. The caring teachers were excellent in the ways they taught him through the years. He had so much support from the staff and so many special teachers at CAE that he learned all of their names and hasn’t forgotten any of them. He even knew what each one did and became a helper to them when he was 15 and up. He became very helpful and this taught him to be independent and sure of himself.
CAE is an excellent learning facility for children with Autism to learn, grow, become more self-sufficient and make them more comfortable in home or public settings. We all miss the entire teaching staff and office staff. Thank you for all the loving care that you gave Joey!”
— Joey’s Grandparents
See what this parent had to say about their child’s progress after 5 months of attending CAE:
“My son is excited to go to school! I’ve seen such an improvement, using his communication device more, doing daily chores, and the love and support from the school not only has helped him by our whole family.”
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