The DeSoto Independent School District is joining school systems nationwide in observing Autism Awareness Month, reaffirming its commitment to inclusive learning environments, student support services, and family engagement for scholars with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
As part of this observance, the district is encouraging all students, staff, and community members to wear blue from April 28–30, 2026 to recognize Autism Awareness. The color blue is widely used in autism awareness efforts to promote understanding, acceptance, and support for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.
Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference that affects how individuals communicate, interact, learn, and experience the world. Every person with autism is unique, with their own strengths and needs. With early identification and the right supports, students with autism can grow, achieve, and succeed across academic, social, and emotional areas.
DeSoto ISD offers a comprehensive continuum of Autism (AU) services designed to meet the unique needs of each student. This includes specialized instruction, related services, structured learning environments, and inclusive opportunities that support communication, behavior, social development, and academic growth. Our approach is grounded in meeting students where they are and supporting meaningful progress across all settings.
Families are supported through clearly defined points of contact at every stage of the process, including campus teams for initial concerns, evaluation staff for assessment and eligibility, and both campus- and district-level special education teams for ongoing services and support.
In DeSoto ISD, students with autism are supported through personalized services designed to meet their individual strengths and needs. This includes tailored instruction, access to therapies such as speech and occupational support, and opportunities to learn alongside their peers in inclusive settings. We also prioritize strong partnerships with families to ensure students receive consistent, meaningful support both at school and at home, preparing them for success now and in the future.
Stephanie Fuller, DeSoto ISD Executive Director of Special Populations, shared,"Building awareness across our staff and community is essential to creating schools where students with autism are supported, understood, and able to thrive."
“Autism Awareness Month is a meaningful reminder that every child learns differently and deserves the opportunity to succeed,” Fuller said. “At DeSoto ISD, we are committed to ensuring our scholars with autism are supported through individualized services, compassionate educators, and strong partnerships with families. Inclusion is not just a practice—it is a promise.”
The district continues to prioritize early intervention, family engagement, and collaborative planning to ensure students with autism receive appropriate services that foster independence, confidence, and academic growth.
Demetra Miller, DeSoto ISD Director of Special Education, highlighted the importance of partnership between schools and families in supporting student success.
“Our goal is to meet students where they are and provide the supports they need to grow,” Miller said. “We work closely with families to develop individualized plans that address academic, behavioral, and developmental needs. When schools and families partner together, students with autism are empowered to reach their full potential.”
DeSoto ISD encourages families seeking additional information about autism services or special education supports to contact their child’s campus or the district’s Special Education Department for guidance and resources.
The district remains committed to fostering inclusive environments where all students are valued, supported, and equipped for success.
For more information, visit www.desotoisd.org.
For more stories about updates and accomplishments in DeSoto ISD, visit www.desotoisd.org/Newsroom