In a unanimous decision at the beginning of October, the Collier County Commission approved the establishment of a new charter school designed specifically for students with autism spectrum disorder, inspired by a Naples family’s journey through tragedy.
Stephanie Nordin, a mother of twin boys with autism, began the project in 2022 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Logan, her son, who is nonverbal, suffered a 20-foot accidental fall from a school window and was rushed to the hospital in critical condition.
“In 2022, my son had an accident ... and there was no help,” said Nordin, reflecting on the terrifying experience that required her 15-year-old son to be airlifted to Tampa General Hospital, where he was kept on life support for 45 days. “There’s such a need here. There’s such a need for so many families.”
During her son’s recovery, Nordin struggled to find specialized disability services throughout Collier County and decided to take matters into her own hands. Together with former Collier County Public Schools (CCPS) board members Jen Mitchell and Emily Kafle, an experienced special needs educator from Minnesota, Nordin assembled a board to bring her vision to life.
"And that's how we ended up here ... it all just fell into place," said Nordin with a smile.
The Autism Collier Charter School , modeled on the successful South Florida Autism Charter School in Hialeah , will be tuition-free and serve students from kindergarten through age 22.
“This will be a place where children with autism are the focus,” said Emily Kafle, the school's principal. “Everything is about them—from the staffing to the facility, the lighting, the flooring, and the furniture," she added.
Although the location of the new school remains confidential under a non-disclosure agreement, Mitchell, who serves as board chair, assures the community that announcements will be made soon, and the school's location will be central for easy-access. “We’re a tuition-free public school,” she said, emphasizing the board’s commitment to creating an inclusive environment designed around the needs of autistic students.
From flexible seating options to sensory-supportive materials like dimmed lighting, fidget tools, and soundproofing, the school’s construction and contents will cater entirely to the sensory needs of its students. “Lighting, the thickness of the drywall, the flooring—everything was taken into account, said Mitchell.
Interest in the new school has already exceeded expectations, according to board members. “Day one, we had 76 families complete an interest form,” Kafle reported. “The response has been overwhelming.”
The Autism Collier Charter School plans to open in August 2025. “When families come into our school, I want that first day to look like hope. To see them walk in and feel like this is it," said Nordin.
For families interested in learning more or completing a prospective student form, visit the Autism Collier Charter School website.