PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. (CBS12) — Construction is underway on a new autism-focused school in St. Lucie County, giving families on the Treasure Coast another educational option designed specifically for students on the autism spectrum.

Ground has been broken for the Treasure Coast School for Autism, a public charter school expanding from Palm Beach County into Port St. Lucie. The school is set to open for the 2026–2027 school year, starting with pre-kindergarten through second grade.

For months, CBS12 News has spoken with Port St. Lucie parents who say they have been trying to find the right educational support for their children with autism.

“It’s been rough. It’s so heartbreaking that my child is not getting what she needs,” said Port St. Lucie parent Omanezi Olokor in a previous CBS12 report.

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Another parent, Celia Roberts, said many families feel pushed toward homeschooling, even when it’s not always realistic.

“Homeschool is a choice that a lot of moms are making in the district, but at the same time, some moms work. That’s hard,” Roberts said.

Now, families may soon have a new option closer to home.

The Treasure Coast School for Autism will begin with about 70 students in its first year, intentionally starting small. Leaders say grades will be added year by year, with long-term plans to eventually serve students into young adulthood.

Regional Executive Director Ann Eisenberg says the school is designed to fill a gap many families say has been missing.

“What our students tell us is it’s a place where they’ve made friends for the first time, where they’re invited to birthday parties and included in after-school activities,” Eisenberg said.

Eisenberg says what sets the school apart is that all services are provided under one roof, including speech therapy, occupational and physical therapy, mental health services, and behavioral support. That allows students to receive help immediately, without long wait times.

“We want our kiddos to feel really comfortable and really supported,” Eisenberg said.

She adds the school is about more than academics, it’s about building a sense of belonging for both students and families.

“Raising a child with autism is not just about mom or dad or a guardian, it’s about the whole community,” Eisenberg said. “And it takes a lot to help make that child a success in their own way.”

The charter school is set to open in August 2026, with registration opening January 26th.