Els Center of Excellence

Jupiter, Florida

The Els Center of Excellence moved from concept to reality and became operational by 2015. The Center is an extraordinary project that is designed to be an example of what can be made available to children and young adults on the autism spectrum. The physical components include an educational program for 300 students ages 3-21, applied research, medical and professional services, transition to adulthood and a myriad of aspects including adult living and job training.

A new 27 acre non-profit ESE (Exceptional Student Education) School includes a Research Program, Medical and Professional Services, Lower School Building and an Auditorium and Foundation Administrative Office Building. International and local visitors enter the Auditorium Lobby featuring a painted and stained 2 story Grand Stair. The Auditorium resides behind the Grand Stair and is designed for performances and teaching and research seminars. Technology is integrated for international on-line seminars. Upholstered walls provide acoustical absorption. Irwin auditorium seating has dark wood back panels. A drapery on the stage back wall opens to reveal a full wall projection screen. The charter school includes specialty rooms for Applied Research. Observation Rooms were designed for discrete classroom viewing, teaching and evaluation. The low light level in the Observation Room obscures the viewer from classroom view. A Shaw Contract wood grain vinyl plank floor tile pattern and high ceiling highlights identify intersections in the perpendicular corridors. Classroom doors stand out in dark stained wood and dark color Patcraft Carpet. Corridor walls are a neutral color for low stimulation.