Who We Are
Applied Brilliance Academy is a calm, sensory-friendly learning pod for children ages 5–10 in the Northeast Austin / Manor area. We support neurodivergent learners, sensory-sensitive children, and any child who thrives in smaller, structured environments.
Our Mission
To spark lifelong curiosity, creativity, and confidence in every learner by providing a personalized, hands-on educational experience that emphasizes imaginative exploration, modern learning tools, academic rigor, real-world application, and social-emotional development in a supportive environment.
Our Vision
To become a joyful and trusted innovative learning hub where every learner is supported, challenged, and inspired to reach their fullest potential through personalized learning and meaningful real-world engagement.
Our Core Values: The 5 As
- Aspiration – Inspiring every learner to reach their full potential.
- Agency – Empowering children to take ownership of their learning journey.
- Adaptability – Encouraging flexibility, curiosity, and resilience.
- Achievement – Celebrating meaningful progress through care and challenge.
- Authenticity – Honoring the unique voice, story, and strengths of each child.
Meet the Founder
Dr. Ashley Haigler, Founder of Applied Brilliance Academy
Dr. Haigler created Applied Brilliance Academy out of a deep personal and professional understanding of how neurodivergent children learn. With a background in STEM, education, and technology leadership, she has spent years building programs, mentoring teams, and designing learning systems that help people grow.
As a mother of twin boys with Autism, she witnessed firsthand how powerful individualized instruction, sensory-friendly routines, and hands-on learning can be. Her sons’ progress inspired the creation of a calm, relationship-centered learning environment where children can feel understood, supported, and capable.
With a background in teaching, educational program design, and building systems that help people grow, she created Applied Brilliance Academy to give children the supportive, individualized environment her own children needed. Her lived experience and professional expertise guide every part of the program, ensuring that learning is calm, structured, meaningful, and tailored to each child’s strengths.
What Learning Looks Like
• Hands-on math and problem-solving
• Phonics, blending and sight word work
• Typing and alternative communication supports
• Sensory play and regulation breaks
• Fine motor practice and writing readiness
• Early STEM exploration through simple projects