Sassafras Division
A highly structured K–12 program where students feel safe and understood, building the confidence to join the wider school community.
A welcoming place for students with autism
An inclusive space
Sassafras is designed for students with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) across a range of communication styles and learning needs.
Many families come to us after trying other environments that didn’t quite fit. They’re often looking for something consistent and predictable, a place that understands their child and connects with them as an individual.
Sassafras is designed for K–12 students with:
Student-to-teacher ratio
2:1
Built around your child
Learning at pace
Lessons are adjusted so each student stays engaged without feeling overwhelmed
Consistent daily routines
Each day follows clear routines - students feel secure and confident about what to expect
Personalized communication
Teachers adjust communication using visuals or prompts so students can understand and respond
Learning in context
Guidance happens in everyday activities allowing students to practice skills in natural situations
How Sassafras is structured
Small classes with a dedicated team
Learning in Sassafras is built around routine and boundaries, helping students feel positive, safe, and ready to learn.
Each classroom operates with one teacher and one educational assistant – with additional team members available when needed.
Students can expect:
Students building confidence to take part more fully in school life
95%
Our Curriculum
An evidence-based approach
Structured learning that builds skills and independence
Students in Sassafras follow the TEACCH (Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication Handicapped Children) curriculum, which is a structured, evidence-based, non-ABA approach. This is focused on increasing independence for individuals with autism.
Core learning areas
Beyond the classroom
Clinical Support
Reliable care throughout the day
Support in Sassafras is built into the daily structure, creating consistency that helps students feel secure and understood. Each day, students work with people who know them well, using approaches that remain steady and predictable.
Students are guided by a team that may include:
Average reduction in Sassafras students' target behaviors each year
73%
Environment
Predictable, calm, and nurturing
Spaces designed to not overwhelm
The Sassafras environment is structured to feel steady and manageable. Classrooms are organized. Routines are clear. Transitions are supported.
This predictability allows students to focus on learning, rather than managing uncertainty.
Students know:
Outcomes
Positive, achievable outcomes that build your child’s confidence
Positive, achievable outcomes that build your child’s confidence
Student progress in Sassafras is steady and meaningful. Over time, students communicate more clearly and with greater confidence. They become comfortable taking part in the day around them. As this builds, learning begins to feel purposeful.
For many families, the goal is for their child to feel at ease and able to take part in activities that once felt out of reach.
It's Disney World first, then it's Quaker School. It's a Paradise, it has everything I need. Everyone is so nice.
Sassafras Applicant
Thank you all for making TQS a place where my daughter can comfortably, happily, and safely learn and grow! This means the world to us!
Sassafras parent
Upper School
Sassafras in Upper School
Care and stability after Grade 8
Sassafras Upper School continues the division with the same focus on understanding each student. For many families, the question after Grade 8 has often felt uncertain. Expanding Sassafras into the Upper School creates a gentler path for students whose challenges remain but whose potential continues to grow.
Students begin and end their day in a dedicated Sassafras classroom. This is a familiar space that helps them stay regulated.
From there, each student’s day can expand into the wider Meetinghouse Division, with opportunities to join selected Upper School classes when they’re ready.
Is Sassafras the right fit?
Start with a simple conversation. We’ll walk you through how Sassafras works day to day and what your child’s experience could look like.
