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VIA Centers requests continued support as it plans new school to serve up to 100 students
Summary
Rebecca Ellison of VIA Centers for Neurodevelopment thanked council for a FY26 Vibrant Community Fund grant and described a capital project to open a new school in late 2026 serving up to 100 students, including an intensive neurobehavioral classroom to keep children in‑community.
Rebecca Ellison, director of advancement for VIA Centers for Neurodevelopment, addressed the council during community matters to thank the city for a Vibrant Community Fund award and to describe a capital expansion that staff said would increase capacity for autism and related disability services.
Ellison said VIA provides specialized schools, adult day programs and early intervention services in Charlottesville and that current demand exceeds capacity. She told council the new school — planned for completion in late 2026 — would serve up to 100 students and include an intensive neurobehavioral classroom intended to prevent out‑of‑area residential placements and keep children with their families.
Ellison noted Medicaid waivers cover roughly half the cost of quality programming for individuals with significant disabilities, so VIA relies on fundraising and community partnerships. She also said VIA is in early stages of developing residential services to support aging caregivers.
Council thanked Ellison and noted offers to meet and tour VIA facilities; no formal funding request beyond the announced FY26 grant was presented at this meeting.
