PROVO, UTAH, April 6, 2020 — Sending students and staff home to self-quarantine has not stopped ScenicView Academy from engaging students both academically and socially. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, ScenicView Academy, a nonprofit transitional school for young adults on the autism spectrum, managed to convert their hands-on programming to online instruction within 48 hours.   

Technology such as Loom and Google Hangouts has made it possible for instruction to continue, and students are still getting classes and one-on-one support. To help students stay connected to one another, and to ScenicView socially, students and staff participated in “Online Spirit Week” on Social Media.  Each day, students, staff, and alumni posted photos of themselves participating in Pajama Day, Cosplay Day, School Spirit Day, and Reading Day where students posted photos of the book they are currently reading. This week ScenicView kicks off their “Online Film Festival,” a series of films and TV shows featuring autistic characters. All content is available online through streaming services so homebound students can watch at their own pace. 

Executive Director Marty Matheson has been pleased with the hard work, positive energy, and flexibility demonstrated by his staff, as some have been asked to take on new or different duties during this time of uncertainty. “Staff is working so hard for the good of SVA and for the good of our students,”  Matheson said. He then quoted one his favorite movies, Apollo 13, “This will be our finest hour.”

About ScenicView

ScenicView Academy, founded in 2001 in Provo, UT, is a nationally recognized nonprofit school for young adults with autism spectrum disorders, neurodiversities or learning disabilities. Through our residential programming, we empower our students to reach their potential and gain skills to live independently. Scholarships are available based on financial need. SVA is accredited by National Commission for the Accreditation of Special Education Services (NCASES).