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Asperger's Students Excel at Franklin Academy

Asperger’s Syndrome

Asperger’s Syndrome, or Asperger’s for short, is a previously separate diagnosis that in 2013 became part of the broader diagnostic umbrella of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). However, the term Asperger’s has remained relevant for many Franklin Academy students, particularly in differentiating their profile from the larger spectrum contained under ASD.

Strong verbal language skills and above-average to superior intellectual ability distinguish our students with Asperger Syndrome from other forms of Autism. The condition is what doctors call a “high-functioning” type of ASD. This means the symptoms are less severe than other kinds of Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Succeeding at Franklin

While Asperger’s Syndrome has been absorbed by the broader diagnostic term, Autism Spectrum Disorder, it is still very much a part of our school language here at Franklin Academy. We work with students to help them understand their strengths and challenges, promoting self-awareness and self-reliance. A review of new and past diagnoses is an important part of the conversation. These discussions set the stage for personal growth. Since Franklin Academy’s founding in 2001, our school’s competency-based curriculum makes it possible for bright students identified with Asperger’s to pursue collegiate goals, professional aspirations, and satisfying lives filled with meaningful relationships.

Known for serving well students with Asperger’s Syndrome, Franklin Academy challenges students academically and addresses four critical competencies for success: Executive Functioning, Social Cognition, Emotional Intelligence, and Self-Care/Self-Advocacy. Our holistic approach to education in a safe and supportive school environment makes it possible for students with Asperger’s to realize their potential, advance to higher education, and make their mark on the world.

Is Franklin Academy Right for Your Student?

Strengths for Franklin Academy Students with an Asperger's Profile Often Include:

  • Reading Decoding Skills
  • Good Memory
  • Detail Oriented Focus
  • Advanced Verbal Skills and Sophisticated Vocabulary
  • Heightened Auditory Perception
  • Honesty
  • Keen Sense of Fairness and Social Justice
  • Expert Knowledge in Areas of Special Interest
  • Unique Sense of Humor

Challenges for Franklin Academy Students with an Asperger's Profile Often Include:

  • Reading Comprehension
  • Executive Functioning
  • Rigid Thinking
  • Seeing the Big Picture
  • Understanding Social Norms and Nuance
  • Written Production
  • Frustration Tolerance
  • Sensitivity to Touch, Sound, Smell, and Taste
  • Transitions and Novel Situations

Accreditation

Franklin Academy is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. Accreditation means that our school meets the criteria for those standards of excellence by which the “educational community assures the high quality of each member school.” NEASC commends Franklin Academy for creating an academic program and residential community that completely matches its mission. Additionally, Franklin Academy is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools, comprising the best private independent schools in the country.

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Franklin Academy | 140 River Road | East Haddam, Connecticut 06423
Phone: 860-873-2700 | Fax: 860-873-9345 | Ad*******@FA***.ORG

Franklin Academy | 140 River Road | East Haddam, Connecticut 06423
Phone: 860-873-2700
Fax: 860-873-9345
Ad*******@FA***.ORG
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