The Helix School: Tuition, Admissions and Reviews | Marin Private Schools

San Rafael, California · Est. 2014

Seen and understood, supported as they are.

A specialized independent, California-certified non-public school in San Rafael for autistic and neurodivergent learners ages 5-22.

Ch. 1

The Story

We nurture the capabilities of autistic and neurodivergent learners in an interdisciplinary, relationship-based educational setting. Our mission is guiding autistic children to lead fulfilling and connected lives.

We opened in 2014 with just two students in an office complex in San Rafael, grounded in the belief that every child deserves an individualized program that honors their strengths and supports their challenges.

Today we serve nearly 60 students from across the Bay Area. Our modest size enables us to forge meaningful connections and learn about each student individually.

Ch. 2

Who We Serve

We specialize in autistic children and related developmental challenges. Our integrated curriculum is tailored to each student’s developmental level, sensory processing differences and emotional-regulatory needs. We emphasize motivation, kinesthetic and sensory-based learning styles.

Serves

Autism

Ch. 3

Programs

Early Elementary

A lead teacher and a speech-language pathologist co-teach. The pathologist is in the classroom for half the school day and leads Language Arts. Days are shorter, from 9am to 2pm.

Upper Elementary

The Wilson reading system and TeachTown support a classroom that uses visual, auditory and kinesthetic learning.

Middle School

Students ages 11 to 13 use adapted curricula, including TeachTown, Wilson Reading Intervention and EdMark. Community outings practice street safety, communication and money skills.

High School Diploma Track

Students study English, History and Algebra with MyPerspectives, IMPACT Modern World and Glencoe Algebra 1, and work toward a California Diploma.

High School Certificate of Completion

Core academics combine reading and writing with functional life skills, creativity and movement.

Transition

Learning Independence Together (LIT) is our mantra, our vision for the future and the central focus of our Transition Program.

Ch. 4

Therapies & Support

Clinical services are integrated into daily school life. Speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, counselors and behavior specialists partner with classroom teachers to align therapeutic goals with daily learning activities.

Integrated therapies

Counseling, behavioral therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy are each tailored to the individual child. A Board Certified Behavior Analyst consults weekly, and our OT gym has suspended swings, crash pads, scooter boards and tunnels.

Ch. 5

Life Skills & Transition

In our Transition Program, students try new and potentially difficult experiences in safe environments, with an emphasis on building quality relationships in the community.

Life skills

Weekly community activities reinforce life skills, with field trips to parks, the farmer’s market, cafes, the zoo and the library.

ii.

Vocational and community

Internships and vocational coaching push and support each student toward their greatest independence.

Ch. 6

Enrichment

Learning extends beyond the classroom. We offer a vibrant array of after-school activities and engaging vacation camps. Each after-school class runs for 6 weeks and can be joined the whole time or by individual day.

MovementPhotographyCookingArcheryArtLEGOHoliday Break CampsHoliday DanceSpring Fling DanceHelix PromHelix SleepoverWalker Creek RanchArt Show

Ch. 7

Funding & Tuition

District placement

In 2017, we became a certified Nonpublic School (NPS), enabling partnerships with public school districts and expanding access to our specialized model.

ii.

Family giving

To learn more about ways to support Helix and give to our Annual Fund, please contact our Development Director, Diane Stair, at diane@thehelixschool.org.

Ch. 8

Admissions

At The Helix School, we celebrate neurodiversity and create a nurturing environment where every student can flourish. We are here to make the admissions process clear, supportive, and welcoming for your family.

Tours

Our Director of Admissions, Elsa Maples, walks families through the admissions process and how to schedule a campus visit.

ii.

Application

Fill out our inquiry form to take the first step. A district representative, educational advocate or outside provider with a referral can email admissions@thehelixschool.org in lieu of the parent inquiry form.

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