The Summit School Autism Program is built upon an experiential philosophy which focuses on the individual needs of the child. The program incorporates strategies from a variety of approaches such as discrete trial training, DIR (Floortime), TEACH and RDI.

The highly structured, nurturing environment of the Summit School Autism Program provides students an environment of predictability which lowers anxiety and enhances growth opportunities. The nurturing environment helps students develop the foundation of interpersonal relationships. The program is rich with sensory experiences to meet student sensory needs throughout the day. Both picture and print visuals are used in learning experiences. Visuals help students communicate, organize their day through schedules, learn new material and perform multiple-step tasks.

Each child receives an Individual Education Program (IEP) based on the studentís strengths and needs identified through the eligibility evaluation done by the studentís school district. The services the student receives are delineated in the annual goals which are aligned with the Illinois State Learning Standards. Individual student goals are developed in the areas of expressive and receptive communication, social interaction, independent functioning, pre academic skills and motor abilities.

Students in the Autism program receive a full five hour day of services for five days a week. The regular school year is based on 180 days with at least 40 days of extended school year services, if the IEP team determines it is needed. Class size is limited to six students to provide the individual time necessary to deliver the instruction and related services called for in the childís IEP.