Question 1

What is WINGS ?

Accepted Answer

WINGS is a nonprofit, nonpublic school (NPS) in the Bay Area specializing in education for children, teens, and young adults with moderate to profound autism and related disabilities. We provide a highly individualized, evidence-based curriculum that supports students in developing communication, life skills, vocational training, and social engagement in a structured and supportive environment.

Question 2

Where is WINGS located?

Accepted Answer

WINGS  is located in San Bruno, California, and serves students from across the San Francisco Bay Area. Many of our students are referred by their local school districts, or private funding sources.

Question 3

Who is eligible to attend WINGS?

Accepted Answer

We support students aged 5 to young adulthood with moderate to profound autism, developmental disabilities, and communication challenges. We specialize in working with non-verbal students, AAC users, and those with complex learning profiles. If your child has an IEP (Individualized Education Program) or requires a highly structured educational setting, WINGS may be a great fit.

Question 4

How can my child enroll at WINGS?

Accepted Answer

Students can be referred by their school district, parents, or caregivers. The enrollment process includes:
Scheduling a visit to see our program in action.
Providing educational records, including the student's IEP, evaluations, behavior plans, and progress reports.
Discussing funding options, whether through district placement, or private pay.

Question 5

What types of therapy and support services does WINGS offer?

Accepted Answer

Our comprehensive autism education program integrates:
Speech therapy, including AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) support
Occupational therapy focusing on sensory integration and motor skills
Music Therapy, ​offers individual and group sessions, collaborating with parents to tailor instrument selection and teaching styles.
Vocational training for autistic students, helping them build life and job skills
Community-based learning experiences, including partnerships with local businesses and schools
Individualized behavior support that focuses on relationship-based interventions beyond ABA

Question 6

Do you offer transition programs for young adults with autism?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We provide autism transition programs designed to support independent living, job skills, and social integration for students preparing for adulthood. We emphasize functional life skills, employment readiness, and self-advocacy to help our students thrive beyond the classroom.
How does WINGS integrate social skills training?
 We offer social skills programs for autistic students, focusing on:
Peer interaction and communication in real-life settings
Inclusive recreation programs in partnership with Mercy High School and Riordan High School
Music therapy for autism, in collaboration with Bay Music Therapy
Water safety and adapted swim lessons with San Bruno Aquatic Center

Question 7

How is WINGS funded?

Accepted Answer

WINGS is funded through a combination of:
School district placements
Private pay 
Grants
Donations from generous individuals and organizations

Question 8

How can donors support WINGS?

Accepted Answer

​We rely on grants, sponsorships, and donations to provide exceptional autism education and support services. Contributions help us expand:​
Specialized therapy programs​
Vocational and transition services​
Technology and AAC resources​
Adult programs​
Preschool and afterschool programs​
Camps​
Your support enables us to enhance and broaden these vital services for individuals with autism and their families.

Question 9

What partnerships does WINGS have?

Accepted Answer

We are proud to partner with:
San Francisco Autism Society (community outreach & advocacy)
San Bruno Aquatic Center (adaptive swim & water safety)
Mercy High School & Riordan High School (peer mentoring & social integration)
Undivided (family support & advocacy)
Bay Music Therapy (music therapy services)

Question 10

Does WINGS accept Medi-Cal or insurance for services?

Accepted Answer

No, WINGS does not accept Medi-Cal or private insurance for tuition or services. However, families may be able to use Medi-Cal waiver programs, IHSS (In-Home Supportive Services), and regional center funding for additional supports outside of school.

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