The Autism Center at Josephine Hodgkins Leadership Academy is a beacon of hope and progress for students with autism- and the classroom reflects the needs of the students it serves. Visitors will find the usual desks, laptops, art supplies and books, but under the dimmed lights you’ll also see soft cushions, chairs that rock, tunnels and tents, a large swing, and lots of snacks.

“Really we're meeting needs all day long, whether it's communication needs, social needs, functional needs, life skills needs, academic needs,” says Special Education teacher Amy Lankutis, “everything we do in here is very individualized, to meet the kids where they're at.”

High Expectations and High Levels of Support

A passionate educator and advocate, Lankutis has set a standard of excellence and support that permeates the classroom. “Mrs. Lankutis has a way with neurodivergent children that helps change their lives for the better,” says Tara McKinster, parent of triplets who started in the Autism Center last year. “Our family is so grateful for her and her team at Hodgkins and their dedication to their students.”

The key to success, it seems, is combining high expectations with tailored support, creating an environment where students are encouraged to reach their full potential- both socially and academically. “We celebrate kids in here everyday,” says Lankutis. “I always explain to parents that it's like a mountain. The top of the mountains are those expectations that we want these kids to meet. Some kids might go straight up, some kids might go up, fall down. Some kids might have to go around the mountain many times before they get there.”

The individual needs of each student are at the core of the autism center's approach, crafting personalized learning plans that cater to specific requirements and motivations. “ Every person you meet with autism is different,” explains Lankutis, “There is no one size fits all.” It is this tailored approach that ensures students receive the appropriate interventions, resources, and support to thrive.

“ I think this job is amazing!” gushes Lankutis, “I love this job. I go home, days exhausted, but then I come back the next day ready to go!”