Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is the fastest growing developmental disability in the United States impacting
1 in 166 individuals*.  ASD is a complex developmental
disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the normal functioning of the brain, impacting development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills.

ASD is a low incidence special education category that is defined as a range of pervasive developmental disorders, with onset in childhood, that adversely affect a pupil's functioning and result in the need for special education instruction and related services. ASD is a disability category characterized by an uneven developmental profile and a pattern of qualitative impairments in several areas of development, including social interaction, communication, or the presence of restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped patterns of behavior, interests, and activities. These core features may present themselves in a wide variety of combinations that range from mild to severe, and the number of behavioral indicators present may vary. ASD may include Autistic Disorder, Childhood Autism, Atypical Autism, Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified, Asperger's Disorder, or other related pervasive developmental disorders. (MN Rule 3523.1325)

There is currently no licensure for the ASD category in the state of Minnesota, although there is a professional certificate available (for more information go to the ASD resource entitled:  college programs and Staff Development Opportunities).  ASD specialists provide consultation and support to students who qualify under the ASD category and serve on their educational teams.  A professional manual and other helpful resources are
available at no cost.

In conjunction with the MN Autism Project, a number of regional and statewide networks are in place to assist and support professionals in the field, including the statewide ASD Network and the Region 11 Metro SPLISE ASD Network.  A statewide Mentorship Program has also been developed to support ASD specialist who are new to the field.  For these and other regional and state resources, click on the Resource link at the top of the page.  

* Based on prevalence statistics from the National Institutes of Health (2004) and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (2001).

To view a list of resources click here.

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