One in 88 children are diagnosed with autism each year. While families struggling with autism face a variety of hurdles, one of the greatest and most difficult challenges is finding an appropriate educational program.
In 2003, faced with no other options, six Bergen County families founded REED Academy, Inc., a not for profit school serving children with autism. REED provides highly individualized , scientifically based, state-of-the art intervention for children aged 3 – 21. Children are making tremendous strides at REED – they are reading, writing, solving math problems and working on the computer. They are having conversations with their peers, riding bicycles and playing kickball. They are learning to play the piano, prepare meals, take showers, and brush their teeth. Since the opening of our state of the art facility, children have the opportunity to be in a school environment. From full size lockers to house their backpacks and books to a kitchen and a gym, the children at REED are experiencing and learning everyday necessities to prepare them to lead more independent lives. Since REED opened its doors, nine children have graduated and have returned to their local public schools.
Funded solely by private donations through seven years of relentless fundraising, REED Academy’s state – of – the – art 25,300 square foot facility located on eight acres in Oakland, New Jersey was a vision in the making. Ground breaking took place in Spring of 2010 and in only one year the new facility was completed. REED Academy is now providing the latest technologies and programs to meet the needs of each individual.
Our philosophy is and has always been that every child deserves the opportunity to become a productive, independent adult. REED Academy will continue to strive to make sure that every parents wish for their child can come true.
