The number of children diagnosed with autism has been growing sharply over the past decade. In 2010, the Center for Disease Control says roughly 1 in 68 children were placed within the Autism Spectrum. In 2000, that figure was 1 in 150.
Pegge Erkeneff with the Kenai Peninsula Borough School District said that rise may be due in part to better training for teachers…
Erkeneff: “What’s interesting is we’ve had a 500% increase in students who are identified on the autism spectrum in the last 10 years and part of that is happening because of increased professional development and education for educators and for people in the classroom who are working with students and then just an increase in understanding and awareness overall that’s happening nationwide and internationally.”
Ten years ago the District had 16 students diagnosed with ASD. Now there are 97.
April is Autism Awareness Month and the schools have been hosting speakers and films about the Spectrum, helping students understand the needs of other students with ASD.
Jerri Braun said that as a parent of an autistic child, it’s crucial to have support from the community…
Braun: “It’s very important to us to get the information out so people know what to look for, to know where to get services, what kind of services are available, what kind of different theories and different ways we all have found different ways to progress and try to become part of society.”
The Autism Society of Alaska says families can feel isolated when raising a child with ASD. Walks and fundraisers will be held around the state all month. For more, visit Autism Society of Alaska.