Amherst County Public Schools Named “Best of Region 5” for Excellence in Autism Support

Amherst, Virginia - November 18, 2025

Amherst County Public Schools (ACPS) is proud to announce that the division has been selected as the “Best of Region 5” by the Community of Leaders in Autism (CoLA) for outstanding leadership, innovation, and commitment to supporting students with autism.  Region 5 includes 20 school divisions across Central and Western Virginia, including Albemarle, Augusta, Lynchburg City, Rockingham, Staunton, Waynesboro, and others. Being named the region’s top division reflects the exceptional dedication of ACPS educators, special education staff, and support personnel who work every day to ensure that every child receives the high-quality, individualized support they deserve.

Recognition Rooted in Innovation and Collaboration
CoLA recognized Amherst County Public Schools for several standout initiatives, including:

• Implementation of visual supports and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices to meet the diverse needs of students
• Strong transition programs at the middle and high school levels that connect students with community, life-skill, and post-graduation opportunities
• Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) instructional programs and the division’s commitment to Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) certification for staff
• Behavioral, Educational, Support, and Transition (BEST) Labs, which provide targeted supports to address interfering behaviors and increase access to the least restrictive environment

 

“These initiatives reflect a team effort,” said David Smith, ACPS Supervisor of Intervention and Behavioral Services. “This honor belongs to every teacher, paraprofessional, therapist, bus driver, instructional leader, and support staff member who plays a role in helping our students grow. Their commitment to every child, every day is what makes ACPS special.”

 

“Being recognized as Best of Region 5 is an incredible honor, but what makes it truly meaningful is that it reflects the heart and dedication of our staff,” said Abigail Holman, ACPS Director of Special Education. “Our teachers, assistants, specialists, and administrators work together every day to build programs that embrace each student’s strengths. I am grateful for their commitment and proud to see their hard work recognized at the regional level.”

Region 5 Visit to Amherst County — November 14, 2025
As part of this recognition, CoLA representatives and educators from across Region 5 visited Amherst County Public Schools on November 14, 2025, to learn more about ACPS’s programs and observe classrooms in action. The day included an open forum at the ACPS School Administration Office, followed by guided school visits:

• AAC and Visual Communication Supports at Central Elementary
• The BEST Lab at Central Elementary, featuring structured routines and data-driven behavioral supports
• The Amherst County High School Transition Program, including post-graduate work experiences and functional skill instruction.

 

“Our students are our mission, and we are proud to partner with their families and the community to provide exemplary programming that helps each of them achieve their goals,” said Joshua Neighbors, ACPS Chief Academic Officer. “This recognition serves to highlight the incredible work of so many dedicated staff who ensure that every child receives the support and care they need, every day.”

A Leader in Regional and Statewide Efforts
In addition to being honored as Best of Region 5, Amherst County Public Schools has also been recognized for its participation in Project Impact, a statewide CoLA initiative supported by the Virginia Department of Education, the Autism Center for Education, and Region 5 TTAC at James Madison University. Last year, Amherst team members David Smith and Betsy Thomas were celebrated at the CoLA Summer Institute for their work in leading systems- change efforts within the division.

 

About CoLA
The Community of Leaders in Autism (CoLA) is a VDOE initiative that brings together school divisions to improve outcomes for students with autism through professional development, systems support, and statewide collaboration.