Autistic Inspirations

My profession of teaching early elementary education has been an enjoyable journey for me. Fifteen years ago, I entered the field of public education with a handful of books and an aspiration to bring a love of rich literature to my students. Rich literature remains core to my curriculum and I continue to be gratified daily with student growth and enthusiasm.

Four years ago a very special child walked into my classroom and into my life. He changed my methodology of teaching and tested my beliefs in inclusion. This child has taken me down a path as challenging and rewarding as my original aspiration. He is a child with autism.

This Kindergarten child came with a program, social stories, picture schedules, a sensory diet, 'discrete trial' systematic teaching, and a team of specialists. It's a funny thing, there was not one 'How To Manual' in this heap of stuff. My new journey began. I read articles and books. I made modifications to the classroom. I tinkered with the social stories and computer software. I reflected on good days and bad. I was facinated by new ways to include this special child in my classroom community. I was really teaching and he was really learning!

Since then, I have had several students on the Autism Spectrum as part of my regular education classroom. Each child unique with his own set of 'rules' and needs; each child expanding my knowledge of Autism. This past September, I began a new journey as a graduate student at Antioch University New England with a focus on Autism Spectrum Disorders. I have the energy and desire to learn more and be a source of support for other teachers working with the autistic population in our schools.

I am inspired and touched by autism.