Education

Students take a test in a classroom.

Education


We own and operate
two fully functioning
schools.

Providing tailored educational opportunities to the students who need it most.

Kiefer School

A social, emotional, and therapeutic approach of providing youth with an appropriate education.


Kiefer School serves students struggling in their home district due to severe emotional, behavioral, and/or learning challenges. Our staff at Kiefer use a trauma-informed approach to understanding the cause of a child’s behavior in the classroom. Our Behavior Management Specialists conduct an analysis on each student to learn what serves as a trigger and provides support and resources to deescalate situations.

Meaningful learning can only take place when students are able to express their emotions in a healthy, safe environment. Referrals for Kiefer come directly from school districts, so if you think your child could thrive in Kiefer or benefit from our offerings, please talk to your home district professionals. Our students receive specialized support and experience an evidenced-based curriculum to ensure a seamless transition back to their home district. Learn more by downloading the Kiefer One Sheet.

Learn more about our Bullying Policy.

Student smiles at a desk in a classroom with his arms crossed.
A teacher and student laugh and color together.

Academy for Autism (AFA)

Providing education to kids with Autism in a way that makes sense to them.


Our staff at the Academy for Autism (AFA) understand that each child with autism is unique. They come prepared to address each student’s needs and ensure they are provided with the tools necessary to succeed. AFA serves students ages 5 – 22 who have received an educational or medical diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder.

All students who attend AFA are engaged in the evidenced-based STAR Autism Program that targets expressive, receptive, and spontaneous language, functional routines, pre-academic concepts, and play and social interaction skills. The STAR Autism Program we utilize closes the gap for students who are unable to access traditional general and special education curricula. Referrals for AFA come directly from school districts, so if you think your child could thrive at AFA or benefit from our program, please talk to your home district professionals. Learn more by downloading the AFA One Sheet.

Learn more about our Bullying Policy.

“The teachers and staff at AFA are trained and skilled at everything they do. They are amazing at communicating with me and we will forever be grateful for everything they have done for our son!”
— AFA parent

Come visit us!

Our Kiefer/AFA campus is located in downtown Peoria:

404 NE Madison Ave.
Peoria, IL 61603