CAPSTONE ACADEMY
The Pinnacle of Autism Education
We Deliver High Levels of Student Achievement & Outcomes
Capstone Academy provides an intensive individualized educational program for students based on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis.
We utilize a multi-disciplinary approach to address all areas of need for each student and serve students with a primary diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder ages 6 through 21.
Announcements
Welcome back students and staff for the 2025-2026 school year! Capstone’s tenth year!
Why Capstone Academy?
Intensive, Individualized Programs
Capstone Academy staff conducts initial evaluations and assessments to develop a new IEP when students enroll. Our programming addresses areas of need across all domains of functioning, including activities of daily living, home living skills, community participation, expressive and receptive language skills, academic skills, recreation and leisure skills, social skills, and vocational skills, in order to support each student in a holistic approach. Each skill acquisition program is individualized for each student using evidence-based ABA strategies to provide instruction in the manner which they learn best.
Safe, Nurturing Environment
Capstone Academy staff develop strong relationships with the students with whom they work. Through the individualized instructional strategies and relationship-building with staff, students are supported at their own pace to make meaningful progress.
Highly Trained Faculty & Staff
Capstone Academy staff are highly qualified. All Capstone Academy direct classroom staff have a minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in psychology, education, or a related field. Approximately half of Capstone Academy classroom staff hold a Master’s Degree in Special Education or Applied Behavior Analysis. All classroom staff receive hands-on training in implementing ABA strategies and teaching procedures at Capstone Academy and must demonstrate competency in an annual evaluation protocol in relevant clinical areas.
Optimal Student-Teacher Ratio
Students work in an intensive student-to-teacher ratio to support their needs in skill acquisition, managing maladaptive behaviors, and to increase skills in independence. Many students work in a 1:1 ratio to develop skills in independence and to receive intensive teaching in order to acquire skills. As students gain independence and an ability to remain actively engaged in instruction, students begin to work in dyads or small groups as appropriate.
Community Based Instruction and Transition Services
Capstone Academy staff believes in the importance of programming for each student across all domains and areas of life. In order to promote generalization, it is important for students to practice skills beyond the school environment. Students participate in community-based instruction, as appropriate, to focus on relevant, individualized goals. This may include, but is not limited to, making purchases, attending health appointments, remaining appropriate in community settings, and restaurant skills.
As students are at transition age (14 years of age), Capstone staff work with the students and their families to determine appropriate transition goals and to provide vocational training, including finding and securing on-site employment opportunities. Students and families who have a goal of transitioning back to their home school district are supported through that process if the students have achieved all goals to successfully make that transition.
Our Mission & Vision
Capstone Academy provides effective education services to individuals with Autism through Applied Behavior Analysis and a multi-disciplinary collaboration. Capstone Academy helps individuals reach their maximum potential in all areas, including academic achievement and community and family participation. In addition, Capstone Academy will contribute to the field of Autism and education by conducting research and partnering with universities and local hospitals to educate future professionals.
Testimonials
“My daughter Sammy began attending Capstone Academy when she was 8 years old. Prior to that, she spent three years in a school that simply couldn’t meet her academic or behavioral needs. Naturally, we were nervous about sending her to a new placement and essentially starting over—but those nerves were quickly eased.
From day one, we were welcomed by a team full of kindness and patience—staff who truly wanted to get to know Sammy in order to create the most successful environment possible for her. Her program isn’t a one-size-fits-all model. It’s been thoughtfully tailored to her specific needs, and as her needs evolve, so do her goals.
Thanks to the consistency, dedication, and genuine care of the AMAZING staff at Capstone, Sammy—now 15 years old—is thriving not only at school, but also at home and in the community. Without Capstone Academy, she would not have been able to achieve the level of independence and success she enjoys today.
She still has many years left at Capstone, and we can’t wait to see what else she will accomplish!”
Ashley C., parent
“Capstone Academy is the ideal school for my daughter. The compassionate and dedicated administrators, teachers, therapists, and staff work together to support her social, emotional, academic, and medical needs. This community has been vital to her growth and well-being. Her world is expanding in empowering ways, and for this, I am grateful to Capstone Academy.”
Paloma, parent
“Capstone Academy is an exceptional choice for your autistic child’s education! Their use of Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) is purely implemented. My son is currently a student and had attended Capstone for four years, from seven years old to eleven. In that time, Capstone’s excellent programming and warm staff can be credited with my son’s significant improvement in expressive speech, academics, life-skills, and a reduction in tantrum and self-injurious behaviors to name a few.
On a scale of mild, moderate, and severe, my son is moderate to severe on the autism spectrum. The leadership and staff advocated for my son which helped to secure his placement. I recommend Capstone Academy whole heartedly and without reservation.”
Mrs. Susan Brown
Dr. John-Paul Gomez, MD, CMO