Summer is often a time when students with disabilities experience a gap in educational and social development. To address this challenge and support meaningful growth, the Special Education Foundation’s Autism Independence Project is a powerful partnership with iSocial to help students build independence and develop critical social skills.

This initiative supports SEF’s mission to help students with disabilities served by the Special School District achieve greater independence and expand their life aspirations. The Autism Independence Project offers a proven, engaging, and research-backed opportunity for middle and high school students on the autism spectrum to grow and connect through interactive online sessions.

What is iSocial?

Developed by Dr. Janine Stichter and her team at the Thompson Center for Autism at the University of Missouri, iSocial Remote Group Therapy for Social Competence is an innovative telehealth program designed to radically improve the lives of people with autism. Its goal is to equip children and young adults with the essential skills needed to lead independent lives filled with meaningful employment, friendships, and social connection.

How It Works

Student Identification
Educators and parents work together to identify students in middle or high school who may benefit from the program. Ideal candidates should have basic verbal communication and computer skills, along with reliable internet access.

Structure
The program consists of 32 one-hour evening sessions held over a 16-week period. Students meet in small groups of six, twice per week, in a supportive online environment led by licensed professionals. The sessions are interactive, with fun workshops that include role-playing, contests, and video-based discussions designed to boost engagement and learning.

Proven Results
Validated by eight university studies, iSocial has demonstrated measurable improvements in:

• Communication skills
• Social motivation
• Recognition of facial expressions
• Sharing ideas
• Turn-taking in conversation
• Understanding emotions
• Problem-solving abilities

“Before participating in iSocial, Kensley didn’t fully grasp the impact of her words. That changed dramatically during her time in the program. She’s become so much more aware of how important her words are; that’s all thanks to iSocial.” ~Erin, mother

Apply Now

If you know a middle or high school student served by the Special School District of St. Louis County who may be a great fit for this life-enhancing opportunity, we encourage them to apply today.

To discover more about the iSocial program, visit www.isocialskills.com.