Delaware officials oversee statewide autism support in public schools

The Department administers statewide support and services for students with an educational classification of autism spectrum disorder. The program serves students with an educational classification of autism spectrum disorder statewide. If no school district or other entity is willing to administer the program, the Department must do so.

The Department provides training, coaching, and technical help to public schools and the people who support students with autism. The support covers public schools and students from birth through age 22 who have an educational classification of autism spectrum disorder; it also serves school staff, related service providers, families, and community teams. The Department may purchase specialized services instead of hiring staff.

A statewide review board reviews education and related services for students with autism and reports its findings and recommendations. The review board examines education and related services for students with an educational classification of autism spectrum disorder across public schools. If a school does not meet recommendations made under this section, the Department and Director must offer technical help and allow a gradual improvement plan agreed to by the school and Director. This process does not reduce legal protections for students, their parents or guardians, schools, or agencies. The board reviews services at least once a year and reports its findings and recommendations to the General Assembly’s Education Committees at least once a year.