Celebrating 70 Years!
For 70 years, we have been dedicated to unlocking the potential within every student. Here's to the past, present, and future of Potential Development School for Students with Autism!
Structured Teaching
The TEACCH Method
At Potential Development we incorporate the TEACCH Method, which offers a setting with an array of structured teaching methods to enhance learning characteristics of individuals with autism.
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Congrats to the Class of 2023
At Potential Development, our efforts are centered around equipping our students with the necessary skills, knowledge, and confidence to successfully attain their high school diplomas.
Special Olympics
Potential Development students have the opportunity to participate in a variety of sports activities including bowling, basketball, track and pep club.
Facially-Expressive Assistive Robots
Potential Development utilizes robots in the classroom to support and meet the needs of our teachers as they guide students towards social skill mastery.
Now Hiring
As Potential Development continues to grow, we are looking for dedicated individuals to join our team!
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Welcome to Potential Development

Located in Youngstown Ohio, Potential Development provides a nurturing and inclusive environment for students with autism, from preschool through 12th grade.

We provide an individualized education to students with autism in a safe, state-of-the-art environment designed to empower them to reach their fullest potential in life.

Is PD Right For Your Child?

The Potential Development Experience

A Culture of Acceptance

Preschool

Potential development student with headphones on and laptop out working on assignments

Elementary & Middle School

High School

Interested in Enrolling?

Potential Development takes pride in being the regional leader in providing the most individualized teaching approach to students with autism. We consistently work on building strong relationships with family, staff and supports within our community to ensure our students reach their full potential.

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What Students, Staff and Families Love about Potential Development

See what our students and their families have to say about their experience at Potential Development!

"As a teacher, my goal is not just to impart knowledge, but to create an environment where every student feels seen, heard, and capable of achieving their full potential. Whether it's in the classroom, on the court during Special Olympics, or organizing a memorable Prom night, I wear many hats with pride because each role allows me to contribute to the holistic development of these amazing students."
Casey
PD Teacher
"It’s a very comfortable environment for our family. When I ask my son what he likes the most he says, “They build me up all day Mom”. So yes, Potential Development (PD) is life-changing. The dedication and commitment PD puts forth are above anything I’ve seen. I’m grateful for everyone there and the time they invest. There is no lack of "PD". Everything is done with passion and skill."
Melinda
PD Parent
"I do not know where I would be without Potential Development. They are like my family always accepting me for who I am and helping me to do my best. I have been here since preschool and have made so many friends. I would like to thank all of the teachers, staff, board members, and supporters of Potential Development for believing in me and this school."
Preston F
PD Senior
"I love it here. Thank you so much for all your help. At first I was pretty scared to go to high school because I didn’t want to move on from Middle School to High School to College, but now with your support I think I am ready. I want to thank you for helping me to push on. Thank you for your encouragement and love you all!"
Mya H
Mya HPD Sophmore
Potential Development is my family. Not because of the buildings that they have erected or because of how much they’ve grown, but because of the staff members inside. The teachers at Potential have helped me raise my son. The staff at Potential have walked beside me through family changes, have asked about my other kids, and have given me a safe place to send my son to school every day for the past 15 years. I’m certain that Isaiah is loved just as much by his teachers, aides, therapists, and school administrators as he is by me, and I’m grateful for every lesson, every laugh, and every kind word which will soon become a memory when he walks across that stage and graduates.
Shari
Shari
I do not know where I would be without Potential Development. They are like my family always accepting me for who I am and helping me to do my best. I have been here since preschool and have made so many friends. I would like to thank all of the teachers, staff, board members, and supporters of Potential Development for believing in me and this school.
Preston F
Preston FPD Senior
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“Potential Development is my family. Not because of the buildings that they have erected or because of how much they’ve grown, but because of the staff members inside. The teachers at Potential have helped me raise my son. They have beamed with pride next to me the first time he used the potty, laughed alongside me when he did something silly, cried with me out of amazement when he said or completed a task that I never thought he would be able to complete. The staff at Potential have walked beside me through family changes, have asked about my other kids, and have given me a safe place to send my son to school every day for the past 15 years. I’m certain that Isaiah is loved just as much by his teachers, aides, therapists, and school administrators as he is by me, and I’m grateful for every lesson, every laugh, and every kind word which will soon become a memory when he walks across that stage and graduates. Thank you for shaping my son into the young man he is today!“

PD staff member smiling in selfie
Shari

Parent

Active Students
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Graduating Seniors
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Alumni
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Is Potential Development Right For You?

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Beyond Academics

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Events

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Male student smiling at the lunch table

Our Mission

We believe a child’s potential develops best in a structured environment with individualized educational plans designed for each unique student. This is achieved through ample resources and strong partnerships between parents, caretakers and our educated, caring and qualified staff.

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