Indianapolis: Autism school gets $1.5M gift from Lilly Endowment to expand

Jan 13, 2026, WTHR, Indianapolis: Indy school for students who have autism receives $1.5 ...

The Independence Academy, a school specifically tailored for the needs of students with autism, received a grant from the Lilly Endowment to expand its school.

High school senior Donavon will graduate from Independence Academy in the spring.

His mom, Tarryn Joiner, enrolled him at the school six years ago so he could have access to the resources he needs as an autistic student.

"When I say that Independence Academy is tailor-made for Donovan, everything that they do is centered around his strengths, his weaknesses, what he specifically needs, how he specifically needs to learn," Joiner said.

Joiner said since Donavon started at the school, he has blossomed.

"It really does, I think, relieve the stress of being in a neurotypical environment where there is a standard or a box that children are expected to behave and perform in," she said.

Around 65 students who have autism attend The Independence Academy, also a private nonprofit. Families drive as far as 45 minutes away so their child can attend the school. Students not only learn the basics, but also life skills, such as cooking, laundry and basic finances. . . .

Gill said the school will now expand its opportunities for students with the help of a $1.5 million grant from the Lilly Endowment. . . .