If you missed ASNC’s 40th Anniversary Annual Conference, then we missed you; if you were there, then you’ll know what I mean. The two keynote speakers whom I heard, Scott Bellini and Chantal Sicile-Kira, were outstanding, entertaining, and informative. Two of the founding members of the Autism Society of NC, Bobo Warren and Betty Camp,…
A Dad’s Perspective on Insurance and How to Help
By Scott Taylor In the next few weeks, I will be celebrating an anniversary of sorts. It’s not my wedding; it’s not another year on the job. This anniversary is that of a very special change that came about in my life. It happened subtly and yet, I can trace it back to the moment…
AUTISM INSURANCE COVERAGE — ACT TODAY!
The Joint Study Committee on Autism Spectrum Disorder & Public Safety has heard from advocates and opponents of health insurance reform that would require insurance coverage of proven treatments for people living with autism. The presentations at the first meeting, organized with assistance from the Autism Society of North Carolina and Autism Speaks, clearly established the urgency and…
ACT TODAY ON CORPORAL PUNISHMENT BILL IN CONGRESS
On Thur., April 15, a subcommittee of the U.S. House Education and Labor Committee will begin hearings on banning school corporal punishment. If you agree that the United States needs to join 100 other nations that have already banned this ineffective practice, please contact one of the following: Write Representative Carolyn McCarthy, Subcommittee Chair,…
Losing credit for Curriculum Assistance Classes in High School…
Did you know that students in Curriculum Assistance classes in high school will no longer receive credit for this class? For those who do not have a child in high school, a Curriculum Assistance (CA) class is a class for students with IEPs who need additional help—it’s comparable to resource pull-out time in elementary school. …
Get ready for High School – Changes in the Occupational Course of Study
The Department of Public Instruction is redefining the Standard Course of Study into the Essential Standards. The program is called ACRE, the Accountability and Curriculum Reform Effort. Additionally, it was determined that the Occupational Course of Study (OCS) was not rigorous enough. The OCS is also being aligned with the new Essential Standards. There have…
A Simple ‘Night Out’
A Simple ‘Night Out’ Memorable times often come as surprises. In the midst of an event, you get that feeling that you are lucky to be there. You look around and the moment is richer than everyday experience. And it grows in quality. For days, for weeks, often much longer, you feel that you were…
Statement By Secretary Sebelius on National Autism Awareness Month
During National Autism Awareness Month, we reflect on an urgent public health challenge and rededicate ourselves to addressing the complex needs of people with autism and their families. Over the last decade, we’ve learned that autism is far more prevalent than we had previously believed, affecting one out of every 110 American children. While we…
Residential Issues To Be Reviewed in the NC Legislature
The next meeting of the Joint Study Committee on Autism Spectrum Disorders, Law Enforcement, Public Safety, and First Responders will be Thursday, April 15 at 1:30 pm, in Room 643 Legislative Office Building. If you are not able to attend, you can listen to the proceedings; select Room 643 LOB. The Committee will be…