District specialists urge early supports as autism identifications rise; Project SEARCH highlighted

Dr. Angie Konecki of Special Education Services presented an autism-acceptance briefing to the board, outlining definitions, intervention strategies and district trends.

Konecki told the board autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder with variable presentation and described three functional support levels. She cited national and district trends: nationally she said "1 in 31 children is now identified with autism," and in the district she said 13% of the special-education population is identified with autism as a primary disability (up from 11%). Konecki outlined successful interventions, including applied behavior analysis techniques, use of unique learning systems grounded in the science of reading, assistive technology, visual schedules, noise-canceling headphones and token economies.

Konecki also highlighted transition and employment supports, including Project SEARCH, a community internship program run with the Barber National Institute and county vocational partners. She noted recent recognition for strong employment outcomes among participating students and said the district will continue partnering with community agencies to support postsecondary transition.

Board members asked clarifying questions about levels of support and local events tied to autism awareness. The presentation included a student spotlight and encouraged board and community participation in upcoming events.

What's next: district staff said they would continue internal inventory work through an ad-hoc suicide-prevention committee and keep the board updated on supports and external partnerships.