welcome to cougar mountain

Meet the one-of-a-kind campus for individuals on the autism spectrum ages 5-21 with a fully functioning zoo.

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the first of its kind

Gersh Autism Academy Cougar Mountain Campus is a premier K-12 school dedicated to providing exceptional education for children on the autism spectrum. Since our establishment in 2017, we have proudly served the greater Seattle area, creating a nurturing and supportive environment where young learners can truly thrive.

What truly sets Gersh Autism Academy Cougar Mountain Campus apart is its unique location adjacent to the Cougar Mountain Zoo. As the first school for children with autism in the country to have a zoo on campus, we offer an unparalleled opportunity for students to bond with animals in a therapeutic setting. Research has shown that interacting with animals can help reduce stress, anxiety, and irritation, while promoting better social behavior and physical well-being. This hands-on experience fosters a calming and supportive environment that enhances the overall learning experience for our students.

Our emphasis on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy allows us to tailor our programs to meet the unique needs of each student. By focusing on individualized learning plans, we help children develop essential skills, improve social interactions, and achieve academic excellence. In addition to these personalized academic programs, students at Cougar Mountain benefit from:

• Comprehensive Therapeutic Services: Our multidisciplinary team provides ABA therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and social skills development, all aimed at fostering holistic growth and enhancing the quality of life for our students.
• Daily Living Skills Training: Engaging activities designed to promote independence and self-sufficiency from a young age, preparing students for success beyond the classroom.
• Innovative Learning Experiences: We offer a rich array of educational field trips and interactive programs that connect classroom lessons to real-world applications, promoting experiential learning.
• Collaborative and Inclusive Environment: Our school fosters strong peer relationships and social interaction, encouraging a sense of belonging and community among students.
• Parental Involvement and Support: We believe that education is a partnership. Our dedicated staff works closely with families, offering resources and guidance to help parents navigate the educational landscape for their children.
• Animal-Assisted Learning: With access to the Cougar Mountain Zoo, students benefit from animal interactions that can improve emotional regulation, reduce stress, and provide valuable social development opportunities.

Cougar Mountain is committed to providing a world-class autism education while offering a range of unique experiences that help each student succeed academically, socially, and personally.

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94% of ASD familes with pets say their child has a ‘strong bond’ with their pet.

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83% of parents claim their child showed a ‘noticable improvement’ when engaging in Animal-Assisted Therapies.

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Children with ASD showed a 43% decrease in skin conductance responses in the presence of animals.

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