Autism is a neurobiological condition in which can affect bodily functions that are specific to the individual, such as the gastrointestinal system, immune system and the nervous system. These significant conditions are caused by abnormal brain development. With such crucial bodily functions and social abilities being affected individuals face daily struggles to maintain what society deems to be a normal functioning lifestyle. Most attention within the education system is geared towards children under the age of 18, and even so the programming that is provided is developed.
Furthermore following such years these individuals and their families are left to some degree without support from both education as well as the government. Programming and assistance should be created so that these individuals are able to experience the same opportunities as those who are not limited by such a disorder. Within the elementary and secondary education there are vast differences with the regulated required amount of support. At the elementary level full support is available after IEP (Individual Education Plan) is put into place. This allows parents and caregivers to finally get some support. Once the student is prepared for high school; things begin to change.
Full support is no longer offered to students with Autism, they are considered high functioning. Therefore these students are bunched in with students who have severe learning disabilities and those who are physical handicapped, the need of the individual with autism are rarely met. Post Secondary education is not expected, as these pathways to college/university are not offered to students. It is the parents who inquire and advocate. This is a continuous problem in the public, catholic and private sectors.
In terms of the lack of educational programming as well as socialization resources, which we have outlined above, our long term goals focuses on specific elements that pertain to furthering both the educational and socialization skills of those individuals with varying spectrums of autism. Our movement’s short term goals consist of raising awareness to try to bring about social change around the lack of funding and the availability of support for high-functioning autism.
It is important to raise awareness about autism due to the fact the majority of the York student population are not informed about autism, its characteristics and the issue of funding and support.
