Autism conference celebrates 15 years

Local and national experts will discuss teaching strategies for children with autism or Asperger’s Syndrome at Grand Valley State University’s 15th annual Statewide Autism and Training Project (START) conference.

The conference will take place Monday, May 2, from 8:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. in the Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center in East Lansing (219 S. Harrison Road).

In honor of the 15th year of the conference, three speakers will present a wide range of topics, from supporting children with autism in the community to creating an inclusive culture in schools.

Stephen Shore, clinical assistant professor at Adelphi University, will give two presentations. During his first lecture, Shore will share the numerous challenges facing people who are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Shore will then discuss strategies for enabling individuals with autism to achieve success in finding and maintaining employment.

Dan Habib, from the Institute on Disability at the University of New Hampshire, will present the benefits and challenges of inclusion for students with disabilities in grade schools and beyond.

Alyson Beytien, certified autism consultant, will illustrate why there is a need for greater inclusion in the community for children with ASD. She'll explore a variety of community activities that individuals with autism can engage in.

Kellie Fitzgerald, START Project project coordinator, said these crucial discussions come at a time when, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately one in 68 children has been diagnosed with ASD.

"It is crucial for schools, community partners, and families to support students with ASD so they can become active members of their schools and communities, and successfully move into adulthood as independent individuals with many choices and opportunities," Fitzgerald said.

Registration is required for the conference, and closes April 27. For more information about the full conference agenda, and to register, visit www.gvsu.edu/autismcenter or call (616) 331-6480.