In a recent study conducted by the CDC, 1 out of 68 children in the United States were identified with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. That is 1 in 49 boys and 1 in 189 girls were diagnosed with an ASD in 2010. What's more, according to Autism Speaks, approximately 1 out of 3 classrooms in the U.S. has a student on the spectrum. More than half of children with ASD are classified as relatively "high functioning," with IQs within the average range or above. Indeed, many of the children that I see in my practice could be quite successful in college or in a vocational career that they choose, with the necessary emotional, behavioral, and educational supports. Early therapeutic intervention and academic supports are vital in helping children with ASD to learn and grow to their fullest potential. While children with autism who have more severe difficulties with behavior or adaptive life skills are often identified in their classrooms, some children, including those who are academically high-achieving, have a more quiet and withdrawn temperament, and/or have some social interests, can be easily overlooked. Every child deserves the opportunity to learn in a way that makes sense to them, so that they may strive to reach their fullest potential, whatever that may be. Please join me (and Autism Speaks) in calling on Congress to focus on supporting students with autism this fall. The autism speaks petition can be accessed at the following web address.

http://cts.vresp.com/c/?AutismSpeaks/9811e8effc/13a0eac6a4/28506d8553/c=8hKPL7NMLpJ4G&b=9309293&utm_source=270IPM&utm_medium=email&utm_content=EM092915&utm_campaign=270IPMemails&msource=EM092915