The article starts off by mentioning that almost 1 in 150 children has some form of

autism. Because of the prevalence of children with autism, the author mentions the importance

of educating school administrators about the disorder. It is important for administrators to create

successful, inclusive programs for students with the disorder.

Just like other students with disabilities and disorders, experts recommend placing

students with Autism Spectrum Disorders in the least-restrictive environments. It may take some

time to move students into this environment, but this is the ultimate goal. By placing these

students in a regular classroom, they are better able to adapt and learn from their peers.

Another strategy for creating a successful, inclusive program is hiring the best teachers

and paraprofessionals, able to accommodate and help students with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Teachers and Paraprofessionals need to be passionate about their work and impacting students’

lives. Administration should support teachers and paraprofessionals so that they do not feel

isolated in working with students with ASD.

Parental involvement is pertinent to creating a successful, inclusive program for students

with ASD. The school and parents need to be a team in deciding what is best for a child with

ASD. An educator may possibly be better educated than a parent, but it is important for the

school to listen to parents’ concerns and needs of their child. Parents may know more about their

child and how ASD impacts them.

Providing peer support is an important aspect of creating a successful, inclusive program

for students with ASD. Students with ASD want to be feel accepted by their peers. Peers can be

trained either formally or informally, about ASD, and how to support a student who has ASD.

This benefits the peer, as well, by teaching them acceptance and tolerance.
 If these and other ideas, are integrated into an inclusive program, students, with ASD, and

the school will be very successful.