District 88 participates in National Autism Awareness Month

According to http://www.autism-society.org, to highlight the growing need for concern and awareness about autism, the Autism Society has celebrated National Autism Awareness Month since the 1970s. The U.S. recognizes April as a special opportunity to educate the public about autism and issues within the autism community, and District 88 students and staff have helped spread awareness and understanding throughout the month.

Autism spectrum disorders continue to rise, impacting schools, families and communities, and Addison Trail and Willowbrook offered programming and opportunities throughout April for students and staff to learn more about autism.

Addison Trail programs/events:

  • During the week of April 14, LINK students made puzzle pins and magnets that were given to staff members.
  • On April 22, students and faculty participated in a “Blue Out” in support of National Autism Awareness Month. Participants were encouraged to wear the autism awareness puzzle piece, autism T-shirt or the color blue.
  • Coming up on April 29, students are encouraged to stay after school to watch the movie “Temple Grandin” in the auditorium. Popcorn will be available. Also that day, special education students will sell cotton candy to raise money to provide opportunities for students with autism to go out and attend various social interactions within the community with their peers.
  • Throughout the month, sensory tables and puzzles were stationed throughout the school, LINK students read announcements with autism facts and autism fact sheets were available for students to take.

Willowbrook programs/events:

  • Autism training will be offered to staff members during lunch periods on April 29. The presentation will focus on the use of accommodations that help students with autism – and others – find success in the classroom.
  • Students and staff members were encouraged to wear the autism T-shirt every Thursday in April.
  • Puzzles were provided in student collaboration zones throughout the month.
  • Throughout the month, the morning announcements featured facts about autism.