The Communication Arts Program is designed for students in grades 9 - 12 with autism spectrum disorder and related social communication differences who benefit from additional support in developing social thinking, self-advocacy, executive functioning, and communication skills.

Students in the program have a dedicated Communication Arts advisory where they receive explicit instruction in social-emotional learning, pragmatic language, relationship building, self-regulation, and the skills needed to navigate school, work, and life with greater confidence. This smaller, supportive setting provides opportunities for individualized coaching, goal setting, and meaningful peer connections.

At the same time, Communication Arts students are fully integrated into the broader Upper School community. They attend core academic classes, Connections electives, lunch, athletics, fine arts, clubs, and extracurricular activities alongside their peers. This inclusive model allows students to practice and generalize the communication and social skills they are developing in authentic, real-world settings while receiving the guidance and support they need to be successful.

By combining targeted instruction with meaningful participation in school life, the Communication Arts Program helps students build independence, strengthen relationships, and prepare for college, careers, and life as Real World Ready young adults.

Our daughter was really struggling academically and socially and this last week I have picked her up each day and she has had the BIGGEST smile on her face and has talked nonstop on the way home!!! She is LOVING it at MSA and we have all the wonderful Comm Arts staff to thank for such a fantastic start. 
Communication Arts Parent