Why more students with autism are looking to Colorado public schools for special education services

Across Colorado, public schools are serving more students with autism. The increases over the past five years are striking: In Denver Public Schools, the state's largest district, there's been a nearly 75% increase in the number of students with an autism diagnosis who seek help from special education services. And while the exact increase varies from district to district, those figures are higher across Colorado, according to data from the state's Department of Education. Students on the autism spectrum often require extra support from a teacher. Or a more calming classroom setting. So how do Colorado schools support those students -- and where do they find the resources to serve more of them? Melanie Asmar is an education reporter for Chalkbeat Colorado. She recently spent time in some Denver classrooms and reported on the numbers. She joined Erin O'Toole for a look at how this trend is shaping the state's public schools. * * * * * Sign up for the In The NoCo newsletter: Visit KUNC.org Questions? Feedback? Story ideas? Email us: [email protected] Like what you're hearing? Help more people discover In The NoCo by rating the show on your favorite podcast app. Thanks! Host and Producer: Erin O'Toole Executive Producer: Brad Turner Theme music by Robbie Reverb Additional music by Blue Dot Sessions In The NoCo is a production of KUNC News and Community Radio for Northern Colorado.