Autism is a developmental disability, generally evident before age three, that adversely affects a student's educational performance and significantly affects developmental rates and sequences, verbal and non-verbal communication and social interaction and participation. Other characteristics often associated with autism are unusual responses to sensory experiences, engagement in repetitive activities and stereotypical movements and resistance to environmental change or change in daily routines. Students with autism vary widely in their abilities and behavior. The term does not apply if a student's educational performance is adversely affected primarily because the student has an emotional and behavioral disorder. [refer to 34 CFR 300.7(c)(1)(i)]
The term of autism may also include students who have been diagnosed with Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Asperger's Disorder, Rett's Disorder, or Childhood Disintegrative Disorder provided the student's educational performance is adversely affected and the student meets the eligibility and placement requirements. Autism may exist concurrently with other areas of disability.
Autism Early Intervention Project
The goals of the Autism Early Intervention Project are (1) to train preschool teachers of children with autism and related disabilities in Emory’s Incidental Teaching model and (2) to promote inclusion for children with autism and related disabilities as they transition to kindergarten placements. Training topics will include Incidental Teaching of Social Communication Skills, Development of Conventional Kindergarten Readiness Skills, and Promoting Peer Interactions. The introductory webinar was presented on April 24, 2013. To view the recording, click on the link, Inclusion of Young Children with ASD and Related Disabilities Webinar.
Staff Contacts
Debbie Reagin, Ed. D.
Education Program Specialist
Division for Special Education Services and Supports
Georgia Department of Education
1770 Twin Towers East
205 Jesse Hill Jr. Drive SE
Atlanta, GA 30334
Phone: (404) 232-1607
Fax: (770) 359-4729
E-mail: dreagin@doe.k12.ga.us
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Online Resources