WISCA School for Children with Autism

The Watson Institute Social Center for Academic Achievement (WISCA) is a special education school program designed to meet the individual needs of autistic students who are currently able to benefit therapeutic interventions and supports that are not typically available in a tradition public school setting. Classroom composition is determined by students’ grades and curricular needs as well as graduation requirements.

WISCA Program for Autistic Students Includes:

• Outcome-driven curricula backed by an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), incorporating textbook curricula, online curriculum, and personalized electives based on students’ interests;
• Therapeutic supports that focus on creative problem-solving, self-regulation, and relationship development to foster social and emotional learning;
• Flexible model to provide additional adaptations to students such as a functional academic curriculum, academic adaptations, and other individualized supports.

Services Supporting the Transition to Adulthood

Students in the WISCA program benefit from extensive opportunities to practice social and functional skills to help prepare them for graduation and their transition into adulthood. Special Education Transition Services such as In-House Vocational Experiences (IHVE) and Community-Based Instruction (CBI) provide pre-vocational experiences in practical settings such as on-campus, and at local community businesses and organizations. These programs help students with disabilities work on functional and social skills development to prepare for their next step into adulthood.

For more information or to refer a student to WISCA, contact Meagan Trimbur, M.Ed., Educational Liaison.

412-749-2805 or [email protected]

WISCA Referral Form

Additional Resources:

WISCA has three convenient locations in the Pittsburgh region:

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