ABOUT US

Over 15 years ago, what began as the radical, heartfelt response of six teachers to serve students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and developmental disabilities, has grown into one of the top schools for autism in the United States. Using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), an evidence-based science, we identify what each student needs to create an independent and fulfilling life. These might include social skills, communication and language, academics, daily living and community skills, vocational skills and meaningful community engagement. By providing our students with structured environments, using creative teaching strategies based on behavioral intervention, and using data to inform programming, our nationally recognized approach has achieved superior results.

We are making a real difference in the lives of students with ASD and their families. Our programs serve children from age 3 to 21, through our integrated early intervention and preschool program at the Joshua Early Childhood Center, and our school-age and transition programs at our Englewood and Boulder campuses.

The Joshua School serves over 120 students. We are a non-profit, facility school, approved by the Colorado Department of Education and partner closely with over 10 local school districts to provide the intensive services many of our students need. By providing our students with structured environments, using creative teaching strategies based on behavioral intervention, and using data to inform our programming, our nationally recognized approach has achieved superior results. Using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), an evidence-based science, we identify, with families and teams, the needs of each student to create an independent and fulfilling life. These might include social skills, communication and language, academics, daily living and community skills, vocational skills and meaningful community engagement. 

We rely on a variety of scientifically derived methods including incidental learning, task analysis and discrete trials, as well as proven behavioral interventions using reinforcement-based systems. Our individualized assessments and curriculum include the Essentials for Living, We also rely on community-based instruction (CBI) to teach skills in a natural environment.

Through data collection and accountability, we create programs that work and help children and families to succeed. Data taken before and during treatment allows us to constantly adjust learning to best suit the individual needs. The goal? To help each student overcome any communication and learning deficits and behaviors, and to open the door for learning and growth. But we believe it’s our fundamental beliefs that set us apart.

We are a community, working together with the goal of helping our students grow and develop. We know our parents advocate and have risen to the challenges presented to them. Their love and activism inspires each of us, and together we strive to give our students lives filled with possibility, happiness and belonging.