What is Autism? Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors. They include autistic disorder, Rett syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) and Asperger Syndrome. ASD can be associated with intellectual disability, difficulties in motor coordination and attention and physical health issues such as sleep and gastrointestinal disturbances. Some persons with ASD excel in visual skills, music, math and art.

How common is Autism? Autism statistics from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identify around 1 in 110 American children as on the autism spectrum–a 600 percent increase in prevalence over the past two decades. Careful research shows that this increase is only partly explained by improved diagnosis and awareness. Studies also show that autism is three to four times more common among boys than girls. An estimated 1 out of 70 boys is diagnosed with autism in the United States.

Mrs. Amos's ABC's of SUCCESS

A: All graded work will be sent home on Friday

B: Breakfast ~ Breakfast has been proven to be the most important meal of the day. Please make sure your student eats a healthy breakfast or participates in breakfast at school.

C: Communication ~ Please share your concerns, what you feel is working for your child, and ask for clarification if something is unclear. Contact me at the school at anytime.

D: Dates ~ Please familiarize yourself with the Harrison County School Calendar for important dates so you may plan accordingly

E: Email ~ mlamos@access.k12.wv.us

F: Friends ~ Get to know your child's friends and encourage those relationships that are a positive influence

G: Gratitude ~ We appreciate an extra hand in the classroom, any materials, or healthy snacks that you may be able to provide.

H: Homework~ Homework for the week will be sent home on Mondays in the folder.

I: IEP ~ IEPs will drive your students' education

J: Journaling ~ Journaling will occur daily. Please check your child's journal for accomplishments or behavior issues that they have/had during the day.

K: Keep trying ~ Keep trying no matter how hard things get. It takes 21 days to change behavior.

L: Listen ~ Take a few minutes each night to listen to your child's day.

M: Motivation ~ We will work closely to find out what motivates your child. When your child is motivated, more education can occur.

N: News ~ News from the office will be placed in your child's folder. Please be aware of events taking place in the school to promote community for your child.

O: Open Door ~ Please come in at any time to discuss your child's growth or concerns.

P: Policy ~ Please familiarize yourself with the school and classroom rules and policies. Your child will be held accountable for these.

Q: Quiet time ~ Please give your child quiet time away from electronics before bedtime.

R: Respect ~ Respect is one of the characteristics we will be working on with social skills activities.

S: Snacks ~ Please be aware that ONLY healthy snacks are allowed, no candy or sugary items.

T: Tools ~ We will utilize all our "tools" and "resources" to further the education of your child.

U: Update your teacher ~ If there are things going on that may be affecting your child, please let us know. Kids react to things going on in their life, and it allows for sympathy from the teaching staff.

V: Volunteer ~ We always welcome an extra hand in our classroom

W: Websites ~ Technology will be used during instruction. Live Grades will be updated weekly.

X: eXplore ~ We will eXplore your child's unique talents to eXcell his/her unique abilities.

Y: Yell and Shout!! Your are your child's biggest cheerleader so when little steps are accomplished celebrate with your child!!

Z: zzzzzzz.... please make sure your student gets plenty of rest

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