Quest Kids Academy (QKA) provides a supportive educational setting for children and teens with autism and other developmental disabilities. Guided by the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis, students at QKA have undergone remarkable transformations. One example is Steven, whose journey features inspiring milestones thanks to his supportive family and dedicated staff.
Recognizing the Need to Transition to Quest Kids Academy
Steven began his academic journey in a traditional public school, where he found comfort in having the same teacher for several years. However, his school experience did not integrate with therapy services. With a new grade set to bring a change in teachers, Steven’s family recognized an opportunity for him to transition to an environment that could better facilitate his needs.
“Before QKA, Steven struggled to connect,” Nick, his dad, says. “He didn’t make a lot of eye contact. He didn’t talk a lot. He had a lot of limitations and needed to be with somebody who knew him.”
Implementing Strategies for Success with Family and Staff Support
Once Steven adapted to the change, the inclusive atmosphere at QKA became a turning point. Surrounded by people who understood him and encouraged him to stretch beyond his comfort zone, he began to bloom. The convenience of having school and therapy in one location through Quest Kids Therapy significantly reduced stress for the family, while providing Steven with the consistent support he needed.
As a result, the challenges he once faced started to dwindle. Ally, Steven’s interventionist, recalls how he initially struggled with task stamina and following instructions. Thanks to personalized strategies and routines implemented at school and home with his stepmom, Vanessa, Steven gained the tools to excel academically. Although his family once worried about his ability to read or do math, they have seen him approach reading confidently and proudly proclaim math as his favorite subject.
“I love how challenging math can be,” Steven shares. “I also enjoy making friends and learning new things.”
Building Toward Independence with Quest for Life
Seeing Steven advance in his studies and embrace new experiences prompted the staff to recommend his transition to the Quest for Life (QFL) program next year. QFL helps students jumpstart prerequisite skills for adulthood, focusing on essential independence and vocational and social skills.
“Steven shows great leadership qualities and is a great role model for other students,” Ally shares. “He wasn’t always motivated to interact, but now he’s encouraging others while tackling more advanced tasks for himself. This shift in attitude demonstrates that he’s ready for QFL and greater responsibilities.”
Once in the program, Steven’s goals will align with his future plans through a structured curriculum, assessment tools and hands-on resources. He has always expressed interest in working and is ready to gain the skills to turn his passion into a possible career.
“Filmmaking is my future job. I will make so many movies with interesting twists and special effects,” Steven says.
Setting the Stage for a Bright Future
As Steven continues to excel, everyone has high expectations for his future. Every achievement helps him and his family envision a life where he can live independently. The collaborative support from the staff has been instrumental to his progress. They work with the family to carefully create a personalized plan to meet Steven’s needs.
“When Steven focuses, he can do anything he puts his mind to,” Vanessa says. “I’m happy with all the work that we’ve done here with Quest. He loves coming to school.”
QKA proudly supports students on their paths toward self-discovery and independence and eagerly awaits the next steps in Steven’s remarkable journey! Learn more about how QKA works alongside families to ensure children have an effective, enjoyable educational environment to thrive at Quest Kids Academy—Quest, Inc.
