Dare To Be Academy

• Classification
  Women Owned

Who We Are

At Dare To Be Academy, we believe every child deserves more than just a seat in a classroom—they deserve to be seen, heard, and celebrated for who they are.

We’re a home-based microschool in Maricopa, Arizona, created specifically for autistic children and neighboring neurodiversities in grades K–5. We offer an alternative to traditional classrooms—one that’s built around your child’s needs, strengths, and passions.
What Makes Us Different

Sensory-friendly classrooms that calm, not overwhelm

• 2:1 student-to-guide ratio
• Interest-based curriculum tailored to each student
• Life Skills like cooking, gardening, and self-advocacy
• Certified teacher and social worker on site
• ESA-approved, with lunch and snacks included
• Secured facility with on-site CCTV cameras
• A fully insured microschool built on trust, safety, and accountability

This isn’t just a school. It’s a home for learners who haven’t felt like they fit anywhere else

About the Founder

Ashlee Dollar is a dedicated educator, autism advocate, and the visionary behind Dare To Be Academy. With a Master’s degree in music education and extensive experience teaching in K-12 settings, Ashlee has spent over a decade fostering creativity and academic growth in diverse learning environments. Her background includes teaching in Title I schools, developing innovative curriculum programs, and advocating for inclusive education.

As both an educator and a mother of two autistic children, Ashlee deeply understands the challenges faced by neurodiverse learners. Seeing a significant gap in alternative education options for autistic children in her community, she founded Dare To Be Academy to create a space where every student can feel safe, valued, and empowered. Her mission is to provide a learner-first experience that nurtures individuality, curiosity, and confidence, helping neurodiverse children thrive academically and socially.

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