Virginia Institute of Autism – Lynchburg

The Virginia Institute of Autism was started in 1996 by families looking for effective schooling for their children with autism. Today we operate as VIA Centers for Neurodevelopment, and our Lynchburg school is one of four VIA day schools in central and southwest Virginia, alongside Charlottesville, Roanoke and Lexington. The Lynchburg location opened after a 2009 merger under St. Vincent's Home, which joined VIA in 2023.

Our Lynchburg school runs the Comprehensive ABA Program for students with high support needs who have autism or another developmental disability. Most learning happens individually or in small groups with trained staff using applied behavior analysis, with goals in communication, academics, social skills and independence. School runs year-round with small classes and close family collaboration.

As an extension of the public school system, our day schools prepare students to move into more inclusive public school settings or into adulthood. Our day school programs operate under a Virginia Department of Education license, and VIA holds CARF International and VAISEF accreditation. The same Avalon Drive building also hosts VIA Club & Hub day services for adults.