Frequently Asked Questions

1) Why Choose a Special Needs Private School for Your Child?

Every child learns differently—and some children need more than what a traditional classroom can offer. A specialized private school provides individualized learning plans tailored to your child, smaller class sizes for more attention and support, and integrated therapies such as ABA, speech, and occupational therapy built into the school day. It also offers behavioral and emotional support within a structured environment, along with a safe and understanding community where your child is truly seen and valued. Most importantly, your child is not expected to “fit in”—they are supported to grow, succeed, and shine in their own way. Because every child deserves an education designed for them, not for others

2) What is AKF Academy’s difference from our other special needs schools?”

AKF Academy stands apart from other special needs private schools by combining individualized education with intensive, evidence-based ABA support in a truly integrated model. While many schools offer accommodations, AKF Academy designs each child’s program around their unique learning, behavioral, and developmental needs, ensuring both academic and functional growth. With small class sizes, highly trained staff, and close collaboration between educators and behavior analysts, students receive consistent support throughout the entire day—not just during isolated therapy times. What truly makes AKF Academy different is its strong focus on generalization, helping children apply skills across settings, people, and real-life situations. In addition, AKF emphasizes family involvement, providing ongoing parent training and support to extend progress beyond the classroom. This whole-child, team-based approach creates meaningful, lasting outcomes for students and their families.

3) Can I join the fieldtrips with my child?

Yes—at AKF Academy, parents are welcome to join field trips, and your involvement is encouraged

We believe that learning extends beyond the classroom, and having parents present can help children feel more comfortable, supported, and successful in community settings. Your presence can also help reinforce skills your child is working on, such as communication, transitions, and social interactions.

To ensure a smooth experience for everyone:

Please inform the school in advance if you plan to attend
Follow AKF Academy guidelines during the trip
Allow staff to lead and guide activities so strategies remain consistent

Our goal is to create a collaborative environment where families and staff work together to support each child’s growth.

At AKF Academy, we see parents as partners—and your involvement truly makes a difference.

4) How many Parent-Teacher meetings is scheduled at AKF Academy?

AKF Academy’s difference is its commitment to ongoing, meaningful collaboration with families rather than limited, scheduled meetings. Instead of only meeting once or twice a year, AKF focuses on continuous communication with parents, providing frequent updates on each child’s progress and making real-time adjustments to goals as needed. This dynamic approach ensures that your child’s program stays responsive, personalized, and aligned with their growth every step of the way.

4) Will my child receive a progress report?

Absolutely!

At AKF Academy, we make sure you’re always part of your child’s journey. You’ll receive regular progress reports that show how your child is growing—not just academically, but socially and behaviorally as well.

We believe in open communication, so you’ll always know what’s working, what we’re focusing on, and how we can support your child together.

5) When is open enrollment?

Open enrollment at AKF Academy usually starts in the spring (around March–April) for the following school year. AKF Academy accepts enrollment only during the open enrollment period prior to the start of the school year. We do not accept new students once the school year has begun, in order to maintain consistency and the quality of our individualized programs. We encourage families to apply early, as spaces are limited.

6) How do you decide what level of curriculum my child needs?

At AKF Academy, we begin with a comprehensive review of each child’s current abilities, strengths, and areas of need. This includes intake assessments, review of previous evaluations or IEPs (if available), and direct observation.

We use a combination of academic assessments, skill-based evaluations, and behavioral data to determine your child’s current level. From there, we develop an individualized curriculum tailored to meet them where they are—not based solely on age or grade.

Our team continuously monitors progress and adjusts instruction as needed, ensuring your child is always learning at the right level and making meaningful growth.

7) Do you provide an IEP at AKF Academy?

AKF Academy is a private school and does not develop official Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), which are issued through public school systems.

However, we create a highly individualized learning plan for each student based on their unique needs, strengths, and goals. If your child already has an IEP, we review and incorporate relevant goals and supports into our program.

Our approach ensures that your child receives personalized instruction, progress monitoring, and targeted support similar to an IEP—tailored specifically for success in our setting.