Our Story
The Helix School was born from one family’s love for their child—and a deep determination to create something better.
In 2007, Marjorie McMorris and her husband, Marc received news that would change their lives forever: their youngest son, Kyle, then just two years old, was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). At the time, they had only a limited understanding of what the diagnosis meant. What quickly became clear, however, was that Kyle experienced and understood the world very differently from his peers.
Like many parents at the start of this journey, Marjorie and Marc immersed themselves in learning. They read extensively, consulted doctors and therapists, and studied research and best practices in autism education. One message was consistent and clear: early, individualized intervention could make a profound difference in a child’s life.
As Kyle grew, it became increasingly apparent that the educational options available did not fully reflect what the research—or Kyle himself—were telling them. Programs were often fragmented or rigid, addressing only pieces of a child rather than the whole. Marjorie envisioned something different: a school that recognized how cognitive, language, social-emotional, and sensory-motor systems must work together to support meaningful growth.
In 2014, that vision became reality. The Helix School opened with just two students in an office complex in San Rafael. From the beginning, the school was grounded in the belief that every child deserves an individualized program—one that honors their strengths, supports their challenges, and allows them to experience success, self-expression, independence, and belonging.
The school grew thoughtfully and intentionally. In 2017, Helix became a certified Nonpublic School (NPS), enabling partnerships with public school districts and expanding access to its specialized model. Today, The Helix School serves nearly 60 students from across the Bay Area.
Kyle, whose journey inspired it all, is now preparing for adulthood with the same care and intentionality that shaped his early years.
Marjorie and Marc remain deeply connected to the school they founded. Marjorie continues to guide the school’s vision and serves on the Board of Directors, helping ensure that the values at the heart of Helix remain strong.
What began with just two students became a thriving community. For many families, The Helix School is a place where they can finally exhale—knowing their child is seen, understood, and supported for who they are.
A Message from Our Founder
When my son Kyle was diagnosed with autism at the age of two, I had no idea how profoundly that moment would shape our family and eventually, a school.
Founders story for website
Like many parents, my husband Marc and I spent years learning, searching, and advocating. Along the way, we realized that what children like Kyle truly need is not a one-size-fits-all approach, but a thoughtful, individualized, and compassionate environment, one that sees the whole child and believes deeply in their potential.
Founders story for website
The Helix School was created to be that place.
What began with just two students has grown into a community that continues to inspire me every day. I am incredibly proud of the work being done at Helix and honored to remain connected to the school as it evolves and grows.
As Kyle and other Helix students approach adulthood, I’m also beginning a new chapter: the launch of The Helix Adult Academy in Fall 2026. My hope is to ensure that the same individualized, strength-based approach that defines Helix continues beyond age 22—so young adults and their families still have a place where they are known, supported, and able to keep growing.
Thank you for being part of this journey, whether as a family, staff member, supporter, or partner. Together, we are building something that truly matters.
Marjorie McMorris
Founder, The Helix School
Vice Chair, Board of Directors