April is Autism Acceptance Month. This month shines a spotlight on the diverse experiences and perspectives of those living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 36 children are identified as being on the Autism spectrum.
With the prevalence of ASD on the rise, the Virginia Commonwealth University Rehabilitation Research and Training Center Autism Center for Education (VCU-RRTC-ACE) is dedicated to providing Virginia public school divisions with essential supports that help students with ASD thrive, both at home and in educational settings.
ACE offers FREE training and resources with meaningful knowledge and strategies to empower educators, families, and professionals to create inclusive and effective learning environments for Autistic students. The variety of online learning opportunities is designed to meet various learning preferences, schedules, and roles. With options of varying lengths and intensities, learners can select the training that best fits their needs.
- Online Courses offer comprehensive modules covering key topics, including the mandatory “Autism Spectrum Disorder for Paraprofessionals” under Virginia HB 325, requiring an estimated six contact hours for completion.
- How-Tos are step-by-step video guides for practical implementation on topics such as identifying strengths and interests, graphic organizers, breaking down tasks, etc.
- Microlearnings are “bite-sized” interactive lessons for quick learning on specific topics, including Social and Emotional Learning (SEL), Early Childhood communication, and Classroom Essentials for educators who support students with ASD.
- On-Demand Videos focus on high-leverage practices to support Autistic students and can be viewed at your convenience. Presentation topics include partnering with families and paraprofessionals, universal design, teaching initiations, and more.
- Factsheets and Tools are resources for quick reference on topics like Characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Behavior, Communication, Data-Informed Decision Making, Teaching Strategies & Supports, and Social Skills that can be downloaded, printed, and shared.
In addition to online resources, In-Person training and Virtual Learning Communities are available. These offerings connect you directly with knowledgeable and passionate ACE team members, who will equip you with research-based strategies proven to make a significant impact for Autistic students.
Participants who have accessed ACE training and resources have reported an increased understanding of Autism and that they are more reflective of their teaching to find areas for improvement in their use of Autism supports. 83% of participants agreed or strongly agreed that they are able to design, implement, and evaluate the use of evidence-based and high-leverage practices for students with ASD. Below are some sample comments from participants describing the most significant changes they have experienced that they attribute to the training received from VCU-RRTC-ACE:
- “Expanded knowledge of Autism and how I can help my students achieve their goals.”
- “I love the fact that you walk away with a number of great ideas that can be readily applied and adapted.”
- “I have a much better understanding of how to support our school staff (teachers, IAs, Administrators, and others) regarding AAC!”
- “Realizing the antecedent behaviors.”
- “[I] primarily took this course as a parent but also to help in my classroom as well. Strategies have been implemented with my own son and students.”
- “Coaching teachers with high-leverage practices and implementing a systematic approach to teaching and learning”
- “The presenters, as always, were engaging, caring, and galvanizing (see, I learned something new!). I'm incredibly excited to have this support in tackling barriers for students and staff in my division!”
The best way to know about upcoming events and new resources from ACE is to: