A South Florida charter school dedicated to students with autism has brought a group of students to Jamaica for an international adventure aimed at fostering confidence and independence among the children while providing them with an enriching experience often enjoyed by their non-autistic peers.

The group of 20 students and parents, along with staff of the South Florida Autism Charter School (SFACS), arrived in Jamaica on Friday for their four-day trip which will see them being hosted at the Iberostar Resort and enjoy a number of amenities the island has to offer including the world famous Dunn’s River Falls.

“The idea behind this initiative is to give our students with autism the opportunity to experience many of the same things their neurotypical peers enjoy,” Dr Tamara Moodie, SFACS founder, told Observer Online.

“For many families of children with autism, travel can be challenging due to sensory, behavioral, and logistical concerns,” Moodie continued. “As a result, many of our students do not have the opportunity to travel frequently, and parents often have very few opportunities to take a break and simply enjoy time with their children in a different setting.”

Founder of the South Florida Autism Charter School (SFACS), Dr Tamara Moodie (second left, back row) with other participants of the institution’s Jamaica trip at the the iconic Dunn’s River Falls in Ocho Rios, St Ann on Saturday, June 6, 2026.

According to Moodie, who was born in Jamaica, the island was chosen as a destination very intentionally.

“Many of our students have never traveled internationally, and for some, this was their very first time flying on an airplane,” she noted, adding “We wanted a destination that was close to South Florida, making travel more manageable while still providing the excitement and learning opportunities that come with experiencing another country and culture.”

She also noted, “As someone who was born in Jamaica and who visits regularly with my own family, I have always found the people to be warm, welcoming, patient, and accommodating.

“Jamaica’s hospitality industry is known for making guests feel comfortable and respected, and I felt confident that our students and families would receive that same level of care and acceptance,” she said.

Students, parents and staff of South Florida Autism Charter School (SFACS) pose for a group photo in Jamaica on Saturday, June 6, 2026.

The Jamaica trip was originally planned several months ago but had to be postponed due to Hurricane Melissa. The postponement resulted in a much smaller group than initially planned – nearly three times more – but Moodie was happy to finally make the experience a reality.

“For our families, this trip is about much more than a vacation. It is about creating opportunities, building confidence, promoting independence, and showing parents that their children can successfully participate in experiences that many people may have thought were out of reach,” Moodie said. “It is also an opportunity for families to make memories together while allowing our students to explore a new environment, meet new people, and experience the world beyond their everyday routines.”