Reflections on Temple Grandin Ted Talk

I read a picture book about Temple Grandin about five years ago since this was one of the books our county provided for 7th and 8th grade instruction. When I watched her Ted Talk last week in Curriculum class, I found myself taking notes since I figured I could use the information she was sharing to make me a better teacher of Autistic students. I am still learning about Autism each and every day as I work with students in my classes who are Autistic. I feel that more professional development training about the Autism Spectrum Disorder should be provided for general education teachers. I feel that more training is offered to Special Education teachers that to general ed teachers. I have had Autistic students in my classes for the last ten years; however, I have received NO training on how to be an effective teacher with these students. I have learned, through trial and error, how to approach these students, speak with them, teach them, and make connections with them. Surely there is a need throughout many school districts to educate teachers on the best ways to help Autistic students who are mainstreamed. Educating these students is not the job of Special Education teachers alone; the job belongs to general education teachers, counselors, and principals.