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Students with ASD Level-1 Excel at Franklin Academy

College Preparatory for Grades 8–12 and PG

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition that involves persistent challenges with social communication and interaction, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors. The effects of ASD and the severity of symptoms are different in each person. Autism Spectrum Disorder is three to four times more common in boys than in girls, and many girls with ASD exhibit less obvious signs compared to boys. Franklin Academy serves all genders of students with Autism Spectrum Disorder – Level 1.

Strong verbal language skills and above-average to superior intellectual ability distinguish ASD – level 1 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

Autism Spectrum Disorder is 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 individual 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 ASD to pursue collegiate goals, professional aspirations, and satisfying lives filled with meaningful relationships.

Known for serving well students with ASD, 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 ASD 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 ASD 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 ASD 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

Impressive Accomplishments

“How do you measure success?”

At Franklin Academy our goal is so much more than just getting students across the finish line of high school with a diploma in hand. Graduating seniors and postgraduates leave campus with plans to pursue their interests and passions. Our alumni know their strengths. They can identify helpful resources. They can self-advocate. Most will attend college. Some may choose a less traditional path. All are determined, however, to realize fulfilling lives, matching potential with accomplishment.

College Destinations for Franklin Academy Graduates

College is all about the right fit on the basis of personal aspirations, academic achievements, available programs (including accommodations and support), location, and size of the institution. Here is a sample of recent matriculations.

What are Alumni Doing Now?

We help our students identify their passions and encourage them to develop their interests because we believe that what is learned about oneself becomes the foundation for leading a fulfilling and independent adult life. Consequently, our graduates embrace a wide-range of career opportunities that defy stereotype, and they are actively working in the following professions.

Over 450 College Admissions

Success at Franklin

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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