Education Center

Center-based group instruction services are moderate-intensity programs designed to target a child’s individual needs through small group instruction in structured as well as natural (i.e., play) environments, including typical children.

Programs can be individualized to include both group instruction and one-on-one intensive services.


Aspire Class

A traditional classroom for students with autism who are at or near grade level.

Aspire classes are for students who are performing with autism spectrum disorder who are performing at or near grade level in most academic areas but are struggling in more traditional classroom settings, including private, charter, and public schools.

We have three Aspire classes:

  • Early elementary
  • Upper elementary
  • Middle/high school

Aspire is appropriate for students who experience difficulties with:

  • Social/observational learning
  • Friendship building
  • Executive functioning
  • Flexible thinking
  • Perspective taking
  • Managing and regulating emotions and behaviors

Aspire is…

Transitional. Aspire is a school placement focused on developing social, emotional, and behavioral skills needed to thrive in a less-restrictive classroom environment. ABC of NC provides a transition plan and support to help ease reintegration into a traditional academic setting.

Academic. Aspire follows North Carolina curriculum standards and utilizes specialized curricula to enhance instruction and help students achieve their academic potential.

Individualized. Each student has an individualized education program (IEP), and if necessary, a behavior intervention plan (BIP) designed to accommodate his/her specific learning profile.

Accepting. ABC of NC recognizes and values the uniqueness of each student. We incorporate students’ special interests into the environment to motivate and engage them in learning.

Effective. Aspire is taught by highly trained autism and educational professionals who are supervised by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) utilizing evidence-based instructional methods.

See Admissions for more information and to download an application.


Preschool Inclusion Class (PIC)                                                                         

These classes target skills such as: communication (receptive and expressive language), play/social skills, adaptive living skills, and small-group instruction/classroom routines. Each student’s goals will be based on his/her Individualized Education Plan (IEP). Students are assigned to these classes based on age and developmental levels.

This program is designed for young children who:

  • may be having difficulty in or may not be ready for regular-education preschool settings
  • may have limited language skills, both expressive and receptive
  • may have limited play interests
  • may have difficulty with peer interactions
  • have no significant aggressive, self-injurious, or destructive behaviors

*From KidsTogether, Inc.

See Admissions for more information and to download an application.


Exceptional Children’s Class

This class targets skills such as: communication (receptive and expressive language), play/social, adaptive living skills, academics, and small-group instruction/classroom routines. Each student’s goals will be based on his/her Individualized Education Plan (IEP).

We have three classes:

  • Early elementary
  • Upper elementary
  • Middle/high school

This program is designed for students who:

  • may be having difficulty in or may not be ready for other special education settings
  • have limited language skills, both expressive and receptive
  • may have limited play/leisure interests
  • may or may not have pre-academic or academic skills
  • have difficulty with changes in routine, tolerating “no,” transitions, turn-taking, etc.
  • may have moderate aggressive, self-injurious, or destructive behaviors

We reserve the right to require a 1:1 assistant for participation in the classroom, if the teacher determines that it is necessary. Appropriate tuition will be charged if a 1:1 is required (unfortunately we cannot allow parents to hire and send their own 1:1). Screening by one of our program supervisors is required before a student can be registered.

See Admissions for more information and to download an application.

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