April was Autism Awareness Month. Many individuals have misconceptions about people who have autism. According to Autism Speaks, “Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication.”
Eti Umana is a teacher of autism spectrum disorders and has been teaching for about 15 years. He not only taught high school students but also elementary school students as well. There are many instances where individuals who have autism are considered odd and unable to handle certain challenges but that is not always the case.
“Autism is a spectrum disorder so depending on how you look at it there is a gap in some areas,” Umana said “The folks on the upper side of the spectrum of autism there’s not a lot of gap between [these specific students] and a general student, they perform just as well. The only area you may see different is in social interactions but can be very brilliant and they will compete with any group.”
School psychologist Larry Rocquemore runs tests to determine a student’s disability. The tests determine cognitive abilities and achievements. Once all this information is analyzed he gives a report to the teacher and parent of that student. Dealing with people who have autism allows him to see certain misconceptions.
“A lot of the higher functioning students are capable of making grades and being in the regular curriculum,” Rocquemore said.
People who have autism are not that different from those who do not have it. They are still challenged on a daily basis just like any other person.
Individuals such as Elon Musk and rapper Eminem are two successful people on the spectrum. These men overcame the challenges life gave them and are now well known for their successful careers.
Individuals should take the time out and think about the misconceptions because at the end of the day everyone is a person who has feelings and may deal with challenges.
