Meet Tamara Moodie | Principal & Executive Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tamara Moodie and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tamara, what’s the most important thing you’ve done for your children?
As a mother of three Skylar (20), a student at the University of Alabama; Summer (18), attending LSU; and Slade (14), who goes to St. Thomas Aquinas High School I believe the most important thing I’ve done is raise my children in a world where autism is not something distant or unfamiliar. Autism is part of our daily life, and they have never known a world without it.

Because of that, my children have developed a deep sense of empathy, compassion, and responsibility. From a young age, they’ve volunteered every summer with children with autism reading with them, playing alongside them, creating programs to support their growth. They don’t just understand inclusion they live it.

Over the years, I’ve watched them become thoughtful, kind-hearted individuals who advocate for others and lead with love. If you read their school papers or college essays, you’ll see how profoundly autism has shaped their worldview. I truly believe they are better people because of the environment we’ve built together and being their mom has been the greatest honor of my life.

What should our readers know about your business?
My journey began 28 years ago falling in love with your children. 17 years ago, I had an idea and some wonderful people believing in th bold mission to create a place where children on the more involved end of the autism spectrum could not only learn, but truly thrive. I’m proud to be one of the co-founders of South Florida Autism Charter School (SFACS), the South Florida Autism Center, and Friends of South Florida Autism. Together, these three pillars form a one-of-a-kind, wraparound model that brings educational, therapeutic, vocational, and family-centered supports together in one place a true one-stop shop for individuals with autism and their families.

We currently serve hundreds of students across two campuses our flagship location in Hialeah and our newest site in South Miami. We’ve worked hard to expand access while staying rooted in our mission of dignity, compassion, and opportunity for all.

What sets us apart is our commitment to inclusion not just in theory, but in practice. We believe our students deserve the same rich experiences as their neurotypical peers, and we stop at nothing to make that possible. In December 2024, we took over 100 students and staff on a flight many for the very first time. Then in February 2025, we partnered with the City of Hialeah to help families obtain passports, removing barriers to travel and lifelong memories. These aren’t just trips they’re moments of independence, joy, and growth. we’ve also done sleepover camp for our students, we have the first national recognize Key Club. We have a dance, soccer, basketball team. The list goes on.

Our vision continues to grow. We’re currently working on creating The Village of South Florida Autism a residential extension of our one-stop shop model. While not the first residential program in the country, it will be a first-of-its-kind within our network, designed specifically for adults with autism who require more support. This space will include access to therapy, recreation, vocational training, and medical care all in a safe and empowering environment that respects the individual needs and strengths of every resident.

The journey hasn’t been easy. There were roadblocks, doubt, and many times we were told, “this can’t be done.” But we kept going because our students and families deserved more. The lessons? Build with heart. Lead with community. And never underestimate the power of believing in people.

I’ve also had the privilege of telling this story through my books. Walking in My Shoes, Through My Eyes is a children’s book that gives readers a window into the world of a child with autism told from his perspective. I Am Still Just Like You…Autism Through My Point of View is written for parents, exploring the emotional, practical, and sometimes overwhelming journey of raising a child with autism, with honesty, guidance, and hope.

Most recently, I introduced the idea for Spectrum Alert, a statewide emergency alert system specifically for individuals with autism who may go missing. The idea was born from one of our family safety trainings, and thanks to the support of lawmakers and the autism community, the bill was passed into law. I truly believe it will save lives.

What I want the world to know is this: Autism is not a limitation it’s a different way of being, and with the right supports, it opens up new paths to connection, achievement, and joy. Our students are capable. Our families are resilient. And our community is a testament to what’s possible when compassion meets determination.

We’re proud of what we’ve built and even more excited for what’s ahead.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Where We’d Stay:

We’d start off with some beachside luxury at Eden Roc in Miami Beach, where mornings start with ocean views and strong coffee. Then midweek, we’d switch things up and stay at the Hard Rock Hotel in Hollywood because who doesn’t want to sleep inside a giant guitar and catch a concert or two?

Day 1 – Dock Life & Seafood Bites:

We’d kick off the trip with a private dock tour of Miami Beach cruising past multi-million-dollar homes and that classic Miami skyline. For dinner, Mandolin Aegean Bistro in the Design District is a must Mediterranean flavors, fairy lights, and laid-back elegance.

Day 2 – Culture, Coffee & Caribbean Vibes:

We’d head to Wynwood to explore murals, galleries, and all things street art. As a Jamaican, I’d make sure we hit Rise & Toast for brunch their Caribbean-inspired dishes feel like home. Afterward, we’d stop at Panther Coffee, and maybe swing by Zak the Baker for a sweet treat. Dinner? Versailles in Little Havana, the heart of Cuban culture in Miami.

Day 3 – Spa, Shopping & Sunset Views:

Retail therapy at Bal Harbour Shops or the Design District, followed by a luxurious spa treatment at Lapis Spa at the Fontainebleau. Dinner at Cecconi’s in Soho Beach House it’s romantic, vibey, and always delicious.

Day 4 – Island Time in the Keys:

We’d take a scenic drive down to Islamorada or Key Largo, stopping to swim with dolphins at Dolphins Plus. Lunch at Lazy Days Restaurant, right on the water. It’s peaceful, tropical, and a welcome escape from the fast pace of the city.

Day 5 – Museums & Rooftop Cocktails:

Back in Miami, we’d spend the day at Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) and the Frost Science Museum. For dinner, Komodo in Brickell is a must great food, unforgettable atmosphere. Then it’s drinks at Sugar, the rooftop bar that feels like you’re on top of the world.

Day 6 – Sandbar Sundays & Miami Legends:

We’d hang out at Haulover Sandbar, rent a boat or join a crew for some water fun. Dinner at the iconic Joe’s Stone Crab, and ice cream afterward at Azucar in Little Havana try the Abuela Maria flavor!

Day 7 – A Toast to Friendship:

We’d close out the trip with a big brunch either back to Rise & Toast for round two or at Big Pink, known for its oversized plates and playful vibes. Then, a quiet stroll through Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, reflecting on an amazing week and already planning the next visit.

Miami is the kind of city that makes you feel alive and welcomed. It’s not just the beaches or the nightlife; it’s the people, the rhythm, the flavors. It’s where cultures collide in the best possible way and as a Jamaican, I’m proud to call it home.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Honestly, I can’t dedicate this shoutout to just one person my journey has been shaped by a village. My mother made the ultimate sacrifice for me. She gave me her car so I could drive to school while she took the bus. She always told me I could be whatever I wanted to be even while I was still navigating my own learning disability. Her belief in me planted the seed for everything I do today.

To my friends, thank you for being my biggest cheerleaders always celebrating me, even in the moments I forgot to celebrate myself.

To my children, who are part of this mission whether they chose it or not your selflessness humbles me. You’ve made sacrifices, and never once made me feel like I chose my work over you, even when deep down I know that I have at times. Your love and grace fuel my drive.

To my board, thank you for believing in this dream of a one-stop shop for autism support. You’ve never wavered in your encouragement, and your faith in the mission is part of why it’s real.

To my staff you bought in. You see beyond the diagnosis and into the humanity of every student. You work weekends, stretch yourselves, and do it all because you believe in change.

To the parents who trusted me with their children, I see your courage and your hope, and I carry that weight with great responsibility.

And to the students thank you for teaching me. You’ve taught me to slow down, to listen differently, to lead with compassion, and to love without conditions. You are my why.

Website: https://www.drmoodie.com

Instagram: drtamaramoodie

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamara-moodie-ph-d-0ab313a8