On Wednesday April 2^nd, several students wore blue to increase awareness about autism. “Autism is a neurological disorder which affects areas of communication, social behavior, and cognitive development. Some people with autism have normal intelligence, some are below average intelligence such as a 5^th or 6^th grade level.” said Ms. Michea, teacher for the autistic program. However, “there is no cure for autism,” she said.

According to the CDC, autism now effects 1 in every 68 children, and is the fastest growing disability in the United States. “The blue represents that autism is more prevalent in males,” said Ms. Maybee, also part of the autistic program. According to autismspeaks.org, “autism is almost 5 times more common among boys. 1 in every 54 boys has autism as opposed to every 1 in 252 girls.” It is important to raise awareness to “help educate and bring information, research and specialist for support and information needs and an early diagnosis can cut the cost of lifelong care by 2/3,” according to Autism United.

“I wore blue because I think it’s really important to raise awareness for autism,” said Taylor Ballard, 9^th grade.