Matthew’s Center serves students ages 5 through 22 with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities who benefit from a highly structured, evidence-based educational program. We focus on increasing independence, communication, social skills, and functional academics through individualized instruction and behavior support systems rooted in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) practices.

Because every learner is unique, we carefully review each referral to ensure that Matthew’s Center is the right fit. The process involves multiple steps designed to help us fully understand the whole student—their strengths, preferences, and the supports they need to thrive.

Step 1: Referral Submission

Referrals are initiated by the student’s public school district or county special education office. A complete referral packet should include:

  • The student’s current IEP (Individualized Education Program)
  • Eligibility documentation and psychological evaluations
  • Behavioral data, recent progress reports, and incident reports (if applicable)
  • Speech, occupational, or physical therapy reports
  • Any safety or medical plans relevant to the student’s care
  • Current contact information for the case manager and family

These materials allow our admissions team to conduct an informed review and determine whether the student’s educational and behavioral needs align with the supports offered at Matthew’s Center.

Step 2: Records Review

Upon receipt of the referral packet, our Admissions Team—which includes administrative, educational, and behavioral staff—reviews all available information.
This review helps us:

  • Understand the student’s current instructional level and learning goals
  • Identify strengths and potential support needs
  • Evaluate whether our staffing ratios and program model are appropriate
  • Determine whether additional information is required before proceeding

If anything is missing or unclear, we will reach out directly to the referring case manager for clarification. Our goal during this phase is accuracy and understanding, not speed—ensuring that each decision is made with the student’s best interest in mind.

Step 3: Family Tour

Once the referral review is complete, families are invited to visit Matthew’s Center for a guided tour.
During the tour, parents and guardians will:

  • Visit classrooms and see our learning environment in action
  • Meet members of our leadership, education, and clinical teams
  • Learn about our communication supports, sensory spaces, and behavior systems
  • Discuss our individualized approach to teaching, reinforcement, and data collection
  • Have time to ask questions and share more about their child’s strengths, routines, and interests

This visit often helps families envision how their child could succeed in our environment while allowing our team to connect directly with those who know the student best.

Step 4: Student Observation

To ensure an accurate understanding of the student’s needs, our Behavior and Education Team may conduct an observation.
This can take place either:

  • At Matthew’s Center, where the student can visit for a short period in a classroom setting; or
  • At the student’s current school placement, where our staff can observe the student in a familiar setting.

During the observation, our staff focus on communication methods, social interactions, engagement with instruction, and behavioral supports currently in use. This step helps us make an informed decision about placement, classroom ratio, and the type of transition plan needed.

Step 5: Admissions Team Review and Decision

After all information has been gathered, our Admissions Team meets to discuss the referral and determine whether Matthew’s Center can meet the student’s needs effectively and safely.
Considerations include:

  • Academic and behavioral compatibility with current classrooms
  • Appropriate staff-to-student ratios
  • Safety and supervision requirements
  • Resources required to provide consistent, high-quality instruction

If accepted, the family and referring county will receive a formal Acceptance Letter outlining the next steps for enrollment.
If the placement is not appropriate, we will communicate this decision respectfully and promptly so that the county can pursue other suitable options.

Step 6: Transition Planning

Once a student is accepted, our team collaborates closely with the referring school division, parents/guardians, and service providers to coordinate a smooth transition.
This includes:

  • Establishing a start date that aligns with transportation and funding approvals
  • Assigning the student to an appropriate classroom and teaching team
  • Developing a transition plan, which may include an initial 2:1 staffing ratio or gradual increase in daily attendance
  • Scheduling an introductory meeting with parents to discuss communication systems, routines, and daily expectations

Our goal during this period is to create consistency and comfort—for both the student and family—so that the first day at Matthew’s Center feels welcoming and supported.

Ongoing Partnership

The admissions process doesn’t end when the student begins attending. We view placement as the start of a long-term partnership built on collaboration, open communication, and shared goals.
Families and case managers receive regular updates on progress and are encouraged to participate in IEP meetings, parent-teacher conferences, and family engagement events throughout the year.