National Autism Awareness Month holds special meaning for Bitterroot Valley families

Bitterroot Valley families are working together to reach out to other families and bring awareness during National Autism Month.

Since the 1970s, the Autism Society has been celebrating national Autism Awareness Month.

The Autism Society works to educate the public that autism is a complex developmental disability that affects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others and typically appears during the first three years of life.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, autism spectrum disorder affects one in 50 American children.

Bitterroot Valley mother Jessica Fitzpatrick said every month a group of families gather together at the Bitterroot Public Library to share their personal experiences with autism.

"When we meet, the kids have the opportunity to be in a social place with no judgment," she said.

JULIA CUMMINGS Ravalli Republic

Full Story: http://www.ravallirepublic.com/news/local/article_651783ba-9eef-11e2-a8d2-001a4bcf887a.html

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Special education teacher of the year

With patience, humor and caring, Adam Duncan helps kids with emotional disturbances

GAIL SCHONTZLER, Chronicle Staff Writer

Full Story: http://www.bozemandailychronicle.com/news/sunday/article_1d1c6abc-9f35-11e2-9c61-0019bb2963f4.html