Light It Up Blue!
National Autism Awareness day is April 2. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identify that approximately 1 in 68 American children are on the autism spectrum. Government statistics suggest that the rates have increased 10 to 17 percent annually in recent years. (https://www.autismspeaks.org/) Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that can cause social, communication and behavioral challenges. There is often nothing about how people with ASD look that sets them apart from other people, but people with ASD may communicate, interact, behave, and learn in ways that are different from most other people. The learning, thinking, and problem-solving abilities of people with ASD can range from gifted to severely challenged. Some people with ASD need a lot of help in their daily lives; others need less. (https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/facts.html)
In observance of Autism Awareness month, students, staff, parents, and community members are encouraged to WEAR BLUE on Tuesday, April 4. Light It Up Blue spreads awareness and understanding of autism, honors the unique talents and skills of people with autism, and brings attention to the needs of all people with autism. The District Autism Team designed a “Rockets Light It Up Blue” t-shirt for this event! Your child will bring home an order form which can be returned to the school office by March 16 or you can order at parent-teacher conferences on March 14th and 16th.
