Southwest Florida Expands Autism Support Programs as Diagnoses Rise

New support systems for autism care spread across Southwest Florida in 2025. A charter school, first responder training, and added therapy choices now serve more people with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

The first free school for students with autism in Collier County started classes in August. Autism Collier Charter School teaches 80 K-12 students, with 200 kids on the waiting list.

"I was always drawn to the kiddos that were just a little bit different," said Emily Kafle, principal of the Autism Collier Charter School, according to Naples Daily News. Kafle used to oversee special education programs for 7,000 students with disabilities in Collier County.

CDC data shows a sharp rise in autism cases — from 1 in 150 children in 2000 to 1 in 31 by 2022. 

Collier County sheriffs launched training for emergency workers, pool staff, and property agents. Their Autism Support Project teaches ways to spot signs and work with people on the spectrum.

At Naples Therapeutic Riding Center, horses help riders with many needs. Lead instructor Lea Haven sees progress in small steps: "It's just the little teeny things. 'My gosh, he held his reins today, awesome!'"

A new state law signed by Governor Ron DeSantis created the Spectrum Alert system to find missing children with autism. Police must finish specialized training by mid-2026.

The U.S. health department pledged $50 million this fall to study autism. Scientists will look at body systems, medical care, and actions to better grasp these disorders.

Medical updates include FDA approval for leucovorin calcium tablets and new warnings about pain medicine risks during pregnancy.