The Center for Autism Education

Empowering Our Community Since 2002 💙

Where Ability Meets Opportunity

Right here in the Greater St. Louis community, The Center for Autism Education (CAE) has been changing lives for over 20 years.

What started in 2002 with just 10 students in a small O’Fallon strip mall has grown into a thriving, multi-site nonprofit serving children, adults, and families across St. Charles County and beyond. Today, CAE supports individuals with autism and developmental disabilities at every stage of life—helping them build skills, gain independence, and truly be part of their community.

What makes CAE different? We meet individuals where they are—no matter their challenges. We proudly support those with complex behavioral needs, including aggression, self-injury, and other barriers that often prevent access to services elsewhere. Our team creates individualized plans that focus on growth, dignity, and real-life success.

At CAE, every person deserves the chance to learn, connect, and thrive—and that’s exactly what we work toward every single day.

K-12 School Program

Personalized Learning. Real Progress.

Our year-round school program in St. Peters partners with local school districts to serve students who need a more specialized, supportive learning environment.

Each student receives individualized support—often at a 1:1 or 2:1 level—based on their unique needs and IEP. Our team of certified teachers, therapists, and behavior analysts work together to build communication, independence, and functional life skills.

Beyond academics, we focus on helping students gain confidence and the tools they need to succeed not just in the classroom—but at home and in the community.

Adult Day Center

Creating Meaningful Lives Beyond Graduation

When our students graduate, their journey doesn’t stop—and neither does our support.

Our Adult Day Program was created to fill a critical gap for families who struggled to find appropriate services for their loved ones. Today, we provide a safe, engaging environment where adults can continue learning, growing, and connecting.

Participants build independence through daily living skills, volunteer opportunities, and community outings across the St. Louis area. For many, these experiences are key to developing confidence and a sense of purpose.

We also provide individualized behavior support services, led by Board Certified Behavior Analysts, to help each person reduce challenges and build positive, lasting skills.

Your Support Stays Local

Every dollar donated on Give STL Day goes directly back into our programs—supporting the children and adults we serve right here in our community.

When you give to CAE, you’re not just making a donation—you’re helping someone gain independence, build connections, and live a fuller, more meaningful life.