About Islands of Brilliance
We build on capabilities.
Islands of Brilliance (IOB) is a learning experience developed specifically for children and young adults on the autism spectrum.
Rather than expect students to adapt to the environment, we created the ideal environment.
IOB utilizes project-based learning that allows our students to grow their intrinsic capabilities and practice communication, increasing their likelihood of independence as adults.
Our student-focused programming is rooted in art, design, and STEaM-based curriculum. It helps children and young adults learn valuable technical skills, practice critical social and emotional learning competencies, all within a supported environment. Best of all, our students have a place to share their unique voice, ideas, and creativity alongside peers that relate to, understand, and motivate them.
IOB wants students to have fun, be engaged, learn, grow, and most of all feel welcomed. Many parents tell us that our programming is a highlight of the week–it’s something their child looks forward to. We get it—seeing the smiles and excitement on our students’ faces is why we love what we do.
Welcome to Islands of Brilliance. We can’t wait to meet you!
Our Origin Story
It all began in a neurologist’s office…
Islands of Brilliance began in a doctor’s office in the Spring of 2001, when program founders Mark and Margaret Fairbanks were given a three-word prognosis for their son Harry: “Lower Your Expectations.”
Harry had recently been diagnosed with autism, but rather than encouraging his parents, neurologists told the couple that their 3-year old son “didn’t understand the difference between the beginning and end of a book, would not be ready for first grade, and don't plan for him to go to college.”
Like many parents of children identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Mark and Margaret refused to give up on Harry. They discovered that by reaching into his world and engaging with his interests, they were able to build a bridge between his world and their own.
The answer? Trains.
A key characteristic of autism is perseveration–an individual’s devotion to a particular subject matter. With Harry, he loved trains. And he also started taking an interest in technology.
By focusing on these two areas, not ignoring or trying to change them, an idea was born.
IOB’s first pilot program launched Fall 2012 with a simple yet groundbreaking premise: pair children with autism one-on-one with design professionals who would teach the students valuable software skills.
The students created projects based on their “subject matter expertise” and walked away from the class with new design capabilities, a sense of accomplishment, and confidence in presenting their ideas in a group setting. But maybe just as important they developed a connection to their mentor as well as their fellow students.
IOB has grown considerably over the past 10 years. We are continually amazed and inspired by the pure unadulterated creativity of our students, as well as the empathy and generosity of the creative community that makes it all possible. Together, we’re just getting started.
Oh, and Harry Fairbanks? He graduated with honors in December 2020 from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Peck School of the Arts and works as a Verification Services Specialist for a Milwaukee-based company that is a leader in the professional background screening industry.
Islands of Brilliance part of a collaborative receiving workforce innovation grant funding from the State of Wisconsin
IOB is pleased to share that it is part of the newly-formed Think Ability Wisconsin (TAW) initiative aimed at increasing community-integrated employment opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (PWIDD). Under the leadership of the Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin, all partners in the initiative will work to provide education and training for PWIDD, while seeking to initiate long-term change by focusing on improving societal expectations, forming coalitions, and implementing public service campaigns to raise expectations and reduce barriers to employment for PWIDD.
We are honored and excited to be a part of this important initiative! More details to come soon.
