Different By Design. Built for Belonging.
Founded in 2026 by Sarah Kovit Hanna, Melissa Baker, Jennifer Blankenship, Justyce Caldwell, and McKayla Crayton, The Positivity Spectrum Center was created from a simple belief:
Autistic children deserve more than a place to attend school. They deserve a place where they are truly understood.
Education, Different By Design.
Our proprietary program, Different By Design, was created specifically for twice-exceptional (2e), AuDHD, PDA-profile, and autistic learners.
We bring together:
- Rigorous academics
- Individualized learning
- Therapeutic supports
- Social connection
- Emotional well-being
All within one cohesive, neuroaffirming educational experience.
Compassion Over Compliance
We believe education is a right—not a reward for compliance.
Autistic children should never have to suppress who they are or conform to traditional behavioral expectations to access meaningful learning.
Instead, we start by seeking to understand each child—their nervous system, communication style, strengths, interests, and individual needs.
Our approach is grounded in three core beliefs:
Compassion over compliance. Connection before correction. Behavior is communication.
When children feel safe, respected, and understood, they can take risks, build confidence, form meaningful relationships, and discover a genuine love of learning.
We aren’t here to change autistic children. We’re here to build an environment where they can become who they were always meant to be.
More Than a School
The Positivity Spectrum Center is also a home for the autism community.
We envision a place where families can walk through the doors without explaining, apologizing, or worrying about judgment.
A place where:
- Stimming is welcomed.
- Sensory needs are respected.
- Meltdowns are met with compassion.
- Differences are part of everyday life.
- Families feel understood and supported.
A Community Built for Belonging
Our vision extends beyond the classroom.
We are building a vibrant community center where autistic children, teens, adults, siblings, parents, and caregivers can gather, build friendships, celebrate milestones, access resources, and find genuine belonging.
A place where our children aren’t simply accommodated.
They are seen. They are celebrated. They are valued exactly as they are.
A place where families can finally exhale and say:
“These are our people. This place was built for us.”
Our Why
We aren’t simply preparing children to navigate the world.
We’re building a world where they already belong.