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About MRCA

Our Mission

To support children with autism and their families through education, advocacy, and community programs that build skills, confidence, and inclusion.

Our Approach

Whole-child focus:Academics, life skills, communication, and social-emotional growth.
Individualized support:Low teacher-student ratios and tailored plans that meet students where they are.
Family partnership:Practical tools for parents/guardians to advocate and navigate systems.
Community impact:Training and collaboration that make schools and organizations more inclusive.

Who We Serve

Children and young adults with autism and related developmental differences, their families and caregivers, educators, and community partners seeking practical strategies and collaborative solutions.

Our Programs

Advance Academy (Year-Round Day School)

Advance Academy is MRCA’s accredited, year-round day school for children with autism and related developmental differences. With an intentionally low 3:1 student-to-staff ratio, classrooms are led by certified special education teachers and supported by teacher assistants and/or Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs).

Operating year-round helps prevent regression that is common during long breaks, providing the consistency and stability students need to continue progressing.

  • What students learn: Core academics, communication, adaptive and life skills, social-emotional learning, and self-advocacy.
  • How we support: Individualized goals, evidence-informed strategies (including ABA-based practices), and close family collaboration.

Advocacy Services (At No Cost to Parents)

Our advocates help families navigate special education with clarity and confidence. We review IEPs and 504 plans, prepare for school meetings, and collaborate with districts to ensure services are appropriate and accessible.

Advocacy services are provided at no cost to parents, thanks to support from the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD).

Community Learning (Workshops & Training)

MRCA offers workshops, professional development, and customized training for families, schools, agencies, and community groups. Sessions focus on practical, ready-to-use strategies that improve understanding, inclusion, and day-to-day support for individuals with autism.

Getting Started

Enrolling at Advance Academy

  1. Complete the Inquiry Form or call 912-355-9098.
  2. Schedule a tour.
  3. An admissions packet will be provided after a school tour.

Rolling admissions; space is limited and a waitlist is common.

Tuition & Assistance

  • 2025–2026 Tuition: $18,000
  • Tuition Assistance: Limited, need-based aid (typically allocated by August).
  • Georgia Special Needs Scholarship: Many students qualify; this scholarship can significantly offset tuition.

Therapies & Supports

  • On-site consultative services: Occupational therapy and speech/language therapy.
  • On-site private services (optional): Through partners like Coastal Pediatrics for OT and speech/language therapy.
  • Classroom strategies: ABA-informed supports and strategies are integrated school-wide; we do not provide 1:1 ABA therapy.

Ways to Get Involved

  • Donate to sustain and expand programs.
  • Volunteer your time and talents.
  • Support our wish list to meet immediate classroom and program needs.
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Contact MRCA

Have questions about school placement, advocacy help, or trainings? We’re here to help.