Neurodiversity Education Research Center

The vision of the Neurodiversity Education Research Center (NERC) is based on our belief that Neurodivergent individuals can become scientists. Our mission is to build a Neurodiverse STEM workforce by providing opportunities for academic, physical, social, and emotional growth through teaching and learning Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). This is accomplished by using research-based teaching and learning strategies, high-performance standards, and sensory integration, including behavioral, speech, occupational, and mental wellness support.

Neurodiversity Education Research Center operates Science Prep Academy, a high-quality, high-tech, private school created to serve the unique academic, physical, social, and emotional needs of students with Autism. Science Prep Academy’s mission is to equip and prepare students for an emerging 21st Century global scientific workforce in computer science and renewable energy technology.

Science Prep Academy uses a career and college pathway curriculum, giving students opportunities to acquire knowledge and skills that will help develop their potential as active lifelong learners and responsible members of a global workforce. This goal will be achieved by providing students with dual enrollment opportunities at local vocational schools and colleges and internship experiences with local companies.