THE ATHAS SCHOOL
The
Ãthas School is a specialized school in County Mayo
serving children diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. The school employs methods
based on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis, which have been demonstrated to
be effective in the education and treatment of autism. It aims to improve the lives of
children with autism by developing individualized programs to address the unique
academic, social, communication, and behavioral needs of the students.
Ãthas is affiliated with the national
organization Irish Autism Action, but currently has no source of funding and relies on
events such as the Croagh Patrick Challenge to sustain efforts. Preparations for the
school, centrally located in the IRD building in Kiltimagh, began in 2007. The area was
renovated and equipped to accommodate the first group of children during the summer of
2008, providing space to enable a number of children to access much needed speech and
occupational therapy. The school officially opened in September 2008, and is now
serving four children ranging from 4 years to 16 years old, with plans of expanding as
resources allow. Each child receives individualized instruction by highly trained
staff, under the supervision of the school Director, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst
with a background in School Psychology.
Future plans include identifying a Speech Language Therapist and
Occupational Therapist for the school to provide a truly comprehensive and
multidisciplinary approach to education. The school also plans to provide structured
training opportunities and additional support for parents, teachers, and others
involved in the care and education of children with autism.
