This year, April is recognized as National Autism Acceptance month. Recently, the terminology changed from “Awareness” to “Acceptance.” The two words have an incredible difference in their meaning. “Awareness” is a concern or state of being well-informed about a particular group or situation. Whereas “acceptance” is the process of being received and being included. In our district, we want to make sure all of our students with autism, and any disability, are included in some way at every school site. By working collaboratively with our teachers, staff, administration, and especially our parents, we can make this happen. The parent support we have received for our students with autism, and other disabilities, has been incredible. Our team wants to make sure we grow that support by providing inclusive, engaging, and supportive events and activities for our students with autism and their parents and guardians. I appreciate each and every one of you being involved today and wanting to make a difference in your child's life!

Welcome to National Autism Acceptance month! We are honored that you are joining us in recognizing, accepting, and celebrating people who have Autism. We hope you will find all of the resources and opportunities provided this month especially helpful. I would also like to take this opportunity to invite you to our monthly Community Advisory Committee meetings where we provide ongoing training and support for our families of students with special needs. Together we will continue to Shine Brighter with Excellence on Purpose to support each other as we all strive to meet the needs of all of our students with disabilities.

Before moving to the District level to support special education programs, I was a general education and special education teacher for over 20 years; I loved my years as a teacher, and I considered it an honor to teach children with disabilities--including many who have autism.

Often times, the children taught me as much as I taught them! I will never forget those valuable life lessons.

Serving students with disabilities and their families is not only my career but my passion. It is my pleasure to walk alongside parents, staff, and students to foster Autism Acceptance in April...and all year long!

I am so happy MVUSD has adopted the resolution for Autism Acceptance Month. This demonstrates our greater commitment to the students, families, staff, and community as whole. The mission for recognizing Autism Acceptance Month is to support, educate, and to foster trusting relationships. Autism Acceptance Month is a time when we can educate and bring awareness to the community, celebrate the families who work hard for their children, appreciate each individuals talents and value, develop connections among the district personnel, families, and community, as well as support those affected by autism.

Since I began as a teacher in 2006 hundreds of amazing students, families, and staff have crossed my path specifically because of autism. I will always remember each individual student, each who have taught me about the value of life, what determination is, and how we can work together for a purpose.

I am so proud to be part of a district that supports the growth and development of all students with disabilities. We strive to provide high quality training and support for all students, staff and families. Many of the strategies that work so well with students with Autism, also help students with other disabilities. These evidence based practices have improved the lives of so many students. In addition, I am proud to help connect families and students with outside resources and agencies that can better support and serve our communities. I am very excited our district adopted Autism Acceptance Month!