Our  Approach

For some students, frustration, anxiety, or difficulty managing emotions can interfere with their ability to stay engaged in school. They may experience outbursts, avoidance, or shutdowns when faced with academic challenges. At Del Rio Academy, we use structured support, movement-based regulation strategies, and a low-stress learning environment to help students develop self-regulation skills so they can participate more fully in their education.

Strategies include:

• Activity schedules to provide predictability and ease transitions

• Sensory regulation techniques, such as deep pressure stimulation (DPS)

• Canine-assisted therapy to promote emotional grounding and engagement

Many of our students have struggled in past academic settings due to difficulty processing information, maintaining focus, or keeping up with expectations. Some may have undiagnosed or under-supported learning differences, including ASD Level 1, that have contributed to low confidence and school-related anxiety. By adjusting teaching strategies, incorporating multi-sensory learning, and creating achievable academic goals, we help students rebuild their self-esteem as learners.

School has often been a negative experience for the students who come to Del Rio Academy. Some have faced repeated academic failure, social struggles, or feelings of being misunderstood, leading them to avoid schoolwork or disengage entirely. We focus on re-establishing a sense of safety in the learning process, using relationship-based teaching, hands-on experiences, and individualized academic plans to make learning feel approachable again.

For students who experience social communication challenges, including those with ASD Level 1, the school environment can be overwhelming. They may struggle with group work, classroom interactions, or peer relationships, leading to avoidance or disruptive behaviors. Our program helps students navigate social dynamics through structured, small-group learning and embedded social skill development, fostering a sense of connection and confidence in academic settings.

To support this, we integrate:

• Peer-mediated group interventions that foster social connection and collaboration

• Occupational therapy techniques to support classroom participation and fine motor skills

Many students who have had difficulty in traditional classrooms thrive on predictability and routine. However, unexpected changes, new academic challenges, or shifts in schedules can lead to stress and shutdowns. Students with ASD Level 1 may especially struggle with flexibility and unexpected changes. Del Rio Academy incorporates consistent structure, visual supports, and guided transitions to help students adapt to change with greater confidence.

Repeated struggles in school can lead students to develop a fear of failure, avoidance of difficult tasks, or a belief that they are "not smart." Instead of pushing through frustration, they may shut down, become distracted, or avoid assignments altogether. By focusing on strengths, celebrating progress, and incorporating hands-on learning, we help students build resilience and regain a sense of capability in their academics.

Del Rio Academy is designed to meet students where they are—academically, emotionally, and developmentally. Through individualized instruction, a low-stress learning environment, and integration with Sandhill Center’s therapeutic support, we help students move beyond past academic struggles and rediscover a love of learning.