The Autism Symposium in Ithaca, NY will feature sessions describing evidence-based programs currently being implemented in Central New York. Sessions include:
State of the Art Services for Autistic Spectrum Disorders–National and Local Perspectives: Dr. Raymond Romanczyk is Director of The Institute for Child Development in Binghamton, NY. He is also the Director of the new Center for Autistic Spectrum Disorders . He will explain the methods and practices shown to help individuals with autism. Dr. Romanczyk will also describe the services provided at ICD and summarize the new role the Center for Autistic Spectrum Disorders will play in providing training for schools, agencies and families.
Partnership Programs: Dr. Karen Fried is Director of Autism Services at the Franziska Racker Centers . She will share information about the Partnership Program, which is located in Tompkins and Cortland Counties. The program is based on the methodology of applied behavioral analysis (ABA). Using ABA, the program helps preschoolers on the autism spectrum learn new skills and behaviors, develop interests, form relationships, and actively participate in community life while simultaneously helping the families of these children reach their goals for success and happiness. The program provides an intensive behaviorally based classroom model that includes school experiences with typical and non-typical peers and a logically sound transition plan for kindergarten.
The Primary Autism Program: Ithaca City School District developed a model, school-based program for children with autism. The program includes discrete trial training, visually structured environments, the Picture Exchange Communication System, and functional assessment to “trouble-shoot” and modify programs. Ms. Nicole Dauria and Ms. MaryAnn Simpson, the classroom teacher and speech therapist, will discuss the logistical challenges of student scheduling, staff deployment, and physical structuring needed to ensure a successful program.
