Why does Janus Academy exist?
In 1996, five families who all had children diagnosed with autism, sought an education that would help their children thrive. They wanted a supportive teaching environment that was not available at the time. Janus Academy opened its doors in September 1997 with 8 students and 8 staff. This September, we welcomed 90 students, from grades 1 to 12, and 67 staff to our campus. It is a school that was built by parents, for parents.
With the prevalence of autism rising at alarming rates, Janus Academy sees the need for specialized education more than ever. The last five years have seen a record number of applications and families have moved across the country to access our services. Some of our families commute daily from neighbouring towns such as Airdrie, Bragg Creek, Strathmore, Okotoks and Chestermere.
We meet students where they are at and nurture individual development through our continuum of learning. With care and support, our highly trained staff provide a safe and responsive environment for all students.
What services does Janus Academy provide?
Janus Academy operates as an accredited, independent, non profit school to meet the unique educational needs of school-aged children and youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), from grades 1 to 12. We also operate a summer camp program for children with ASD during July and August.
Janus Academy is one of the only autism-exclusive schools in Alberta that provides customized educational programming to autistic children with an Applied Behavior Analysis approach. Calgary’s mainstream educational system is not equipped, staffed or structured to effectively support autistic children with complex needs in learning, self-regulation and behavior management.
We believe autism is not an end, but an opportunity to see the unique potential in all children and help them flourish.
Help Janus Academy keep our doors open and help more families for years to come?
- One-time gift
- Monthly Giving
- Yearly Pledge
- Legacy Giving
- Gifts in Kind
Donations are appreciated in any amount at anytime to help us continually support our existing families, and welcome new ones.
WATCH OUR 2025 IMPACT VIDEO HERE, showcasing the journey of three of our families.
Investing in families helps Calgary now and for generations into the future. We can build brighter futures TOGETHER.
If you are interesting in getting involved, please contact our CEO, Carlene Chrumka at [email protected].
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Thank YOU.