4,664 Total number of students

860 Number of special-needs students

$38.92 million School budget

$8.96 million Amount budgeted for special education

$1.12 million Additional federal money for special education

Source: Lewiston School Department, 2005-06 statistics
Autism

What is it? A complex developmental disability that appears during the first three years of life. It is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the normal functioning of the brain, affecting development of social interaction and communication skills.

People with autism typically show difficulties in verbal and nonverbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities. Autism affects each individual differently at varying degrees, which is why early diagnosis and intervention is crucial.

How many children have it? 1 in every 166

How many children have severe autism? 30 to 40 percent of children with autism are nonverbal or low-functioning

10 years ago: 1 in every 10,000 children was autistic, compared to 1 in every 166 today

Why is autism increasing among children? Unknown. The Centers for Disease Control consider autism an epidemic. As the current number of autistic children reach adolescence and adulthood, more programs and residential homes will be needed.

Source: Maine Chapter of Autism Society of America; Autism Society of America

http://www.autism-society.org/site/PageServer
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