By Toni Garrard Clay/AISD Communications Specialist
April is Autism Awareness Month, and though the month may be ending, the special education employees at Athens ISD never stop looking for ways to serve children who come under their care — and their parents.
“The staff here is awesomely supportive. They’re here for every child,” said one of those parents, Rebecca Eisenhauser. “It’s not just a support team; it’s a cheering section.”
A recent government survey suggests one in 48 children are diagnosed with autism, especially in recent years as the definition has broadened. In response to the need they saw, Athens ISD Special Education Counselor Stacey Risko and her co-workers began this year hosting a series of three luncheon meetings for the parents of children with autism. The purpose is to provide a community of support, a place to share information and concerns.
“We want people to know they’re not alone in their struggles and to encourage them,” said Risko.
Of the dozen or so parents and grandparents who attended meetings this school year, the students they represented ranged from kindergarten to high school. And the meetings — which will resume in the fall — are open to the parents and guardians of all children within Athens ISD, even if that child does not attend the school district.
“Until this, there was nothing. We’ve needed this for years,” said Carolyn Fain during the April meeting. “Before, you felt like you were the only one, but this shows there are others experiencing the same thing.”