Key points:
- For students with autism, the right supports are often the difference between just getting by in school and truly thriving
- How schools can better support neurodiverse students
- Here’s how I use tech to help neurodivergent students gain agency
- For more news on students with autism, visit eSN’s Innovative Teaching hub
Recent public commentary about autism has brought new urgency to the conversation. Awareness alone isn’t enough–students on the spectrum benefit from environments where their needs are understood, respected, and supported with purpose.
Seventy-four percent of autistic students in the U.S. graduate with a high school diploma compared to 86 percent of their non-autistic peers, and that gap speaks for itself, but we have the tools to close it. When educators take the time to apply proven strategies, students with autism can and do thrive–academically, socially, and emotionally.
Throughout my career as a behavior therapist, classroom teacher, and Head of School, I’ve worked closely with students on the spectrum and their families. The takeaway I’ve come to is this: Success in learning comes down to intention. When we personalize support, structure the environment thoughtfully, and teach with clarity and empathy, we give students the best chance to reach their full potential. Here’s how that looks in practice.
Focus on social-emotional learning
Social-emotional learning (SEL) plays a key role in helping students with autism develop tools for self-regulation, communication, and interpersonal connection. These aren’t just “soft skills”–they are essential for navigating school and life. In many schools, SEL is integrated into daily instruction through explicit lessons or classroom routines that focus on self-awareness, emotional management, and relationship skills. It is especially important to tailor instruction to social cues that may be less easily recognized by students on the spectrum. While the most obvious benefit of SEL is improved overall well-being, it’s important to note that developing these skills also positively impacts academic outcomes.
In personalized, one-on-one learning environments, SEL is often embedded both in how subjects are taught and what classes are offered. Teachers can integrate SEL strategies directly into academic instruction, such as modeling emotional regulation during challenging tasks or building communication skills through collaborative assignments. At the same time, schools may offer dedicated courses like wellness, executive functioning, social learning, or mindfulness, which give students structured opportunities to build and reflect on these essential life skills.
When SEL is embedded into both instruction and course offerings–not simply added on–it helps normalize these critical conversations for all students, not just those with unique learning needs. This creates a learning environment where students on the spectrum feel more understood and supported by both peers and adults.
Structured and reliable support
Students on the spectrum often benefit from clear routines, predictable expectations, and environments that reduce uncertainty. When the “rules of the road” are clearly defined, students can focus on the work at hand rather than managing anxiety around what’s coming next.
This might mean clearly outlining what is expected in an assignment, breaking down large tasks into smaller steps, or organizing test questions in a logical, grouped format. These small modifications can significantly improve comprehension and reduce a student’s frustration.
Some schools implement one-to-one instruction that allows for high levels of personalization. In this setting, teachers can tailor each lesson to a student’s needs–incorporating interests that keep them engaged, adapting content delivery to match their learning style, and providing mentoring or skill development support as those needs arise. While not every school offers a one-to-one model, the core principle is widely applicable: When educators know their students well, they can make small shifts that lead to major gains in student achievement.
Data shows that students in supportive, personalized learning environments often exceed academic growth expectations. But beyond the numbers, what matters most is how students see themselves–as capable, intelligent, and equipped to succeed.
Designing environments that support focus
Sensory sensitivities can present real challenges in traditional classroom environments. Overhead lighting, noise levels, classroom traffic, and seating arrangements may all impact a student’s ability to focus and stay regulated.
Thoughtful classroom design can make a meaningful difference. Schools can support sensory regulation by offering quiet reading spaces, flexible seating options like active chairs, or designated areas for individual work.
Even simple adjustments–such as dimmable lighting or access to noise-canceling
headphones–can create a more comfortable space for learning. Schools can put this into practice in their one-on-one environments by minimizing distractions and using conversational seating arrangements with teachers to support student engagement.
The key is knowing what works for each individual student, and giving them access to tools that help them stay calm and ready to learn.
Students on the autism spectrum are capable, bright, and full of potential. They may learn differently than what traditional education practices deems typical, but that simply means we must teach differently. When educators prioritize clarity, consistency, and connection, students are better equipped to meet challenges and celebrate progress made.
The strategies that help students on the spectrum–personalized instruction, emotional awareness, structured guidance–are good practices for any student. But for those who need them most, they are often the difference between just getting by in school and truly thriving.
As educators, we have the responsibility and the opportunity to build systems that support every student’s path forward. That starts with listening, learning, and teaching with intention.