School Community Tool Kit

A tool kit to assist members of the school community in understanding and supporting students with autism.

Download the School Community Tool Kit here!

As the rate of autism diagnosis increases, many more public and private schools will include students with autism. Learners with autism may have some additional challenges in the school environment, but with the support of the school community, students with autism can make great strides and become valued members of the student body. Just as students can learn from each member of the school community, the school staff and peers can learn that students with autism have a lot to offer in return.

School Community Tool Kit Modules

Introduction
What is autism?
How might a child with special needs be a part of our school?
General Strategies for Intervention
For specific members of the School Community
Resources
Appendix

Click here for a PDF of the School Community Tool Kit (255 pages)

This toolkit is not intended to be a curriculum for special education for students on the autism spectrum, but rather a support for the general education and administrative school staff who interact with students with autism in various capacities. However, it is envisioned that this tool kit will provide valuable information and resources that can be employed by special education and administrative staff in their efforts to plan for and support students in general education environments and involvement in the school community as a whole.

New! Individualized Education Program (IEP): Summary, Process and Practical Tips

After months of research, a team of lawyers at Goodwin Procter LLP has generously put together a helpful guide to help families understand the IEP process as their loved ones head back to school. This 26 page guide contains an IEP timeline and clearly lays out the steps to take throughout the IEP process. The guide also includes lots of tips, resources, and answers to FAQs.

Click here to see the Goodwin Procter IEP Guide!
*Note: If you have trouble downloading the IEP Guide, click here to download the new version of Adobe Reader free of charge.

Schools in the News

Justice Department Reaches Settlement with Connecticut Early Learning Center to Ensure Equal Opportunity for Children with Autism

From P.S. 176X, Kids with Autism Get Joyful Launch

Local School to Help Autistic Children Progress at their Own Pace

Learning with Autism

Students Find Positive Outlet in Unit 5 Summer Schools

The Vine School Makes Major Progress After First Year

Autistic Students Get Help Navigating College Life

"Buddy System" Helps Autistic Students in Canon-McMillan

Gaithersburg School Tailors Teaching to Help Students Cope with Disorder

Professionals Talk About An Inclusive School Setting

This is an ongoing initative and we will continue to add and enhance the content. We would appreciate your contributions and feedback, including both successes and opportunities for improvement. Please email us at schooltoolkit@autismspeaks.org.

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