Manassas City Schools proclaims April 2025 Autism Acceptance Month

Brian Masiak, Manassas City Public Schools director of special education, presented the division’s Autism Acceptance Month proclamation and explained approaches the district uses to support autistic students. Masiak told the board that autism is a spectrum and urged acceptance, inclusive practices and accommodations that make schools more accessible for autistic students. He read the proclamation declaring April 2025 as Autism Acceptance Month in Manassas City Public Schools and said the division would present rainbow infinity pins to board members as a symbol of support.

Masiak explained differences in how autism presents and recommended practical classroom approaches such as preparing students for sensory stimuli, providing predictable routines and supporting alternative communication styles. He quoted Dr. Stephen Shore and repeated the division’s stated preference to work with autistic people using identity-first language when preferred. The proclamation text adopted by the board recognizes autistic people as “community members, neighbors, students, coworkers, friends, and family,” and affirms that autistic voices should be included in decisions about their lives.

The proclamation was attested by Chair Suzanne Seberg and Clerk Alba Garza. Masiak emphasized local supports and encouraged staff, families and the community to adopt inclusive practices that respect individual differences.