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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

autism puzzle pieces

ESC Region 11 provides support and professional development to serve families and professionals working with students with Autism Spectrum Disorders in a variety of school settings. Staff development and technical assistance are available to support districts and families in achieving student success.

Trainings are designed to address the full range of student, district and parent needs which include, but are not limited to: communication strategies, analyzing behavior, academic skills, social understanding, parent and family needs, assessment and instructional strategies.

About ASD

Autism and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors.

With the May 2013 publication of the DSM-5 diagnostic manual, all autism disorders were merged into one umbrella diagnosis of ASD. Previously, they were recognized as distinct subtypes, including autistic disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) and Asperger syndrome. (Autism Speaks, July 5, 2015)

In March 2014, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued their ADDM autism prevalence report. The report concluded that the prevalence of autism had risen to 1 in every 68 births in the United States and almost 1 in 54 boys.  (Autism Society of America, July 5, 2015).

Professional Learning Opportunities

For the latest workshops related to Autism, visit the Professional Learning website.  

You can also visit our Facebook page to find up-to-date information about our Autism related workshops, information about Autism research, and new articles relating to ASD.

ESC Region 11 Contact

For more information about Autism, contact the following ESC Region 11 staff member(s).

Michael Tucker

Special Education Specialist - Team Lead