​About Us

Our attitude here at Beyond Autism is simple. We are all here because we want to improve our students' lives and know that it takes a team approach. Although we all possess different skills and abilities, it’s our compassion and desire to enhance their lives that allows us to work synergistically.

Our qualified team members possess the technical competencies necessary to teach children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders. In addition to extensive ABA training and experience, our team will receive quarterly in-services, including non-ABA based training. “Always a student” is our mantra and that applies to our team members too. We will strive to support the continued growth of our team through pertinent educational opportunities.

Our commitment is to our students, their families and our team members. We are driven to ensure that Beyond Autism grows smartly with an exceptional work ethic and high energy that will ensure its longevity.

Mission Statement

Teaching skills that reach beyond the classroom with an abundance of compassion and support.

Our Team
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​Michelle Puopolo

Executive Director

Michelle, along with her husband, opened Beyond Autism in 2014 to provide their son a safe, compassionate and fun environment in which to learn skills that would positively impact his life.  An Army Veteran, Michelle left the nursing field and has dedicated the last 19 years navigating the autism space.  Michelle has served as Executive Director since its inception and enjoys connecting with other families along this journey.   Michelle has also launched Exceptional Yogis, a special needs yoga program that has been part of the school day experience for all students for the last 8 years.

Dani Tronzo

Program Director

Dani has been working as an educator in the autism space for almost ten years. Dani attended the University of Arizona for her undergraduate degree in Cross Categorial Special Education. Dani  later attended Arizona State University to complete her Masters in Autism Curriculum and Development.  Dani has been Program Director of Beyond Autism for six years and recently launched  The Hive, our DDD adult day program where our graduates and other members continue to focus on life skills, employment opportunities and leisure skills.

Stephanie Mueller

Director of Behavioral Services

Stephanie Mueller became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in 2013 after completing her Master of Arts degree in Developmental Psychology at Columbia University in New York City, NY. During her time in the field she has worked with individuals on the autism spectrum across the lifespan targeting skills such as first words and potty training to employment skills and independent living. As the Director of Behavioral Services at Beyond Autism, she oversees the implementation of behavior analytic programming for students and provides training and ongoing supervision to staff members. Stephanie is an active member of the Arizona Association for Behavior Analysis as well as the Four Corners Association for Behavior Analysis.