Celebrating a Record-Setting Graduation at the Autism Academy for Education & Development

Record Achievement at AAED's Ninth Graduation

On May 20, 2026, the Autism Academy for Education & Development (AAED) celebrated a significant milestone—its largest graduating class to date. A remarkable total of 42 high school graduates received diplomas and certificates across the school's six campuses located in Tempe, Gilbert, Glendale, North Phoenix, Tucson, and online.

Founded in 2013, AAED has evolved from a humble beginning with just two graduates in 2017 to become Arizona's first fully accredited private K-12 institution focusing solely on autism education. This growth is a testament to the academy's commitment to providing personalized educational pathways tailored specifically for students on the autism spectrum.

AAED's recognition from the WASC accreditation body enables graduates not only to earn diplomas but also to apply for higher education opportunities. A noteworthy moment during the graduation ceremony was the acknowledgment of alumnus Sam Sieckmann, who achieved a master's degree in Entrepreneurship and Innovation from Arizona State University. Sieckmann expressed his gratitude, stating that studying at AAED prepared him with essential skills necessary for academic adaptability.

Several graduates shared their future plans, illustrating the diverse paths available to them. Briar Copeland expressed interest in pursuing a career in cybersecurity, while Pierce Marchand aims to balance his work at the Pima Air & Space Museum with community college courses.

The B.R.I.D.G.E. program at AAED, which stands for Building Real-world Independence and Developing a Game-plan for Employment, plays a critical role in supporting individuals as they transition from academic settings to professional environments. This program aims to address the concerning unemployment rates encountered by autistic adults, which typically range between 40% and 85%. Through targeted workshops and skill-building initiatives, participants are better prepared to secure and maintain employment.

Internship opportunities with local businesses and hands-on experience within AAED's student-run enterprises, namely The Olive Branch Boutique and Crave Protein Cafe, equip students with practical job skills while promoting autonomy and independence.

As a part of its mission, AAED operates six campuses that offer tailored educational and therapeutic services for individuals across the autism spectrum. Their WASC accreditation not only emphasizes quality education but also allows graduates to pursue further academic endeavors, ensuring they are well-prepared for life's challenges.

For additional details about AAED and its programs, visit their website at aaed.org. With a strong foundation and innovative programs in place, the future seems bright for the students of the Autism Academy for Education & Development as they embark on their next adventures beyond graduation.