The League School for Autism commemorates its 60th anniversary in 2026, reflecting on its evolution from a single classroom in a Newton basement to a comprehensive educational institution serving over 100 students from across Massachusetts. Founded in 1966 by Dr. Arnold and Leona Vetstein of Newton and Dr. Morton and Russela Olin of Brookline, with organizational guidance from Dr. Carl Fenichel of the League School of Brooklyn, the school was among the first in Massachusetts dedicated specifically to students with autism. The institution's journey included multiple relocations before establishing its permanent campus at 300 Boston Providence Turnpike in Walpole in 1999, where subsequent expansions between 2015 and 2019 added a three-story building and two residential facilities.
Currently licensed to serve 110 students ages 3-22, including 32 residential placements from more than 60 Massachusetts communities, League School operates a year-round individualized curriculum tailored to each student's strengths and support requirements. The school distinguishes itself as the only Massachusetts institution implementing the evidence-based SCERTS® Model, a neurodevelopmental relational approach supported by multidisciplinary teams comprising educators, clinicians, and speech, occupational, and physical therapy specialists. This comprehensive methodology addresses academic, social, emotional, communication, and emotional regulation skills to optimize outcomes for students and their families.
The school's Vocational Training Program employs a progressive step-by-step process that enables students to develop workplace skills through both on-campus and community-based opportunities. Looking forward, League School envisions creating a state-of-the-art Career Learning Center on adjacent property to further enhance career preparation initiatives. This focus on vocational development will be highlighted during an October 16, 2026 presentation featuring Dr. Temple Grandin, the renowned author and speaker on autism and animal behavior.
CEO Larry Sauer emphasized that the school's six-decade legacy "stands on the shoulders of our school's founders, leaders, staff, and supporters," expressing hope that this history "will provide a catalyst of support for our vision, helping transition students with autism into meaningful work, careers, and opportunities for the future." The anniversary celebration will culminate in a 60th Anniversary Autism Empowerment Gala on October 16, 2026, with year-long commemorative activities integrated into school events.
The school's continued development and specialized programming demonstrate the growing recognition of neurodiversity in educational settings and the importance of tailored approaches for students with autism. As one of New England's pioneering autism-focused institutions, League School's six-decade evolution reflects broader societal shifts toward inclusive, strength-based education models that prepare neurodivergent individuals for meaningful adult lives. Additional information about the school's programs and history is available through their official website at https://www.leagueschool.org.
