Thank you for believing in your student's potential

As the holiday season comes to a close and we step into a new year, I want to pause and speak directly to you—our families, educators, and supporters.

A new year always brings reflection and hope. And at Autism Oasis, it brings us back to the reason we started this work in the first place: to provide meaningful, accessible learning opportunities for nonspeaking and minimally speaking students.

We also spread a message the world still doesn't quite understand yet—our students are intellectually capable and worthy of a rich education.

When we begin with belief, when we presume competence, we open doors. When we consistently show up for our students with high expectations and real support, we build a path where growth becomes possible.

This year brought incredible growth for Autism Oasis, and I could not be more proud of how far we’ve come. We expanded quickly, becoming official vendors for a growing number of state ESA and school-choice funding programs. That progress matters, because it means more families across the country can access curriculum and support that honors their child’s intelligence and builds real academic skills. Every step forward helps us extend our mission farther than ever before.

This year also marked the launch of our Student of the Month program—one of my personal favorite additions. Celebrating our students—their effort, progress, curiosity, persistence, and individuality—has been a true joy. Each story reminds us that growth doesn’t always look the same, and that every step forward deserves recognition and celebration.

We are also proud to be part of the California Charter School Association, and we are actively working to bring Autism Oasis into charter schools—whether as a curriculum option, an instructional support, or a trusted resource for families. Expanding into these spaces allows us to reach more students while continuing to advocate for learning environments that are accessible, supportive, and rooted in respect for each child’s potential.

Community learning was another highlight of the year. We were honored to host special guests and webinars, including a recent session with Olivia Martinez-Hauge, OTR/L, LMFT of Sensory Space Design, that focused on occupational therapy and sensory room design. I also shared a personal and important webinar addressing Bartonella and its role in aggression. These conversations matter because they provide families with practical tools, deeper understanding and reassurance that they are not navigating this journey alone. We’re committed to continuing to bring expert voices and meaningful discussions into our community—because we believe families deserve both education and support.

As we look ahead, I’m excited for what this new year holds. We plan to welcome more special guests, expand our curriculum to include fourth grade and beyond, and introduce some fun Autism Oasis merchandise along the way. But as always, every new step is guided by one central question:

What do our students truly need?

Before I close, I want to thank each and every one of you. We know homeschooling isn’t easy. There are days filled with questions, uncertainty and exhaustion. But there are also moments of pride, connection and growth that matter deeply—and you are the reason those moments happen.

Please know this: the work you are doing is meaningful. You are showing up for your child in exactly the way they need. And your belief in their potential matters more than you may ever fully realize. Our mentor Mr. Sims reminds parents of this over and over again. YOU are the secret sauce!

Thank you for trusting Autism Oasis to be part of your journey. We are honored to walk alongside you, and we look forward to another year of learning, growth, and celebration—together.

With gratitude,
Heather Anderson
Founder & CEO, Autism Oasis