October 1, 2007

1. After welcome and introductions, the committee reviewed general operating procedures and goals for the year. The goals are:
•complete autism master plan
•survey staff of autistic students re needs and support levels
•monitor implementation of secondary autism program
•broaden communication among stake holders
•expand and develop parent support for ongoing fundraising
•autism spectrum training and staff development for administrators, teachers and instructional associates

2. Lynn Stacey reported the following training activities:
•48 staff from SJUSD attended the Morgan Center Conference on September 29.
•a presentation to the Dropout Counselors on social cognitive skills on October 2
•autism paraprofessional training in June was attended by 50 people
•future training opportunities will include a Carol Gray/ Michelle Garcia-Winner training, the Morgan Center speaker series and Temple Grandin at the San Jose Convention Center

3. Lynn reported that the autism classroom for grades 3 - 5 was added this year at Canoas. We now have two SJUSD/Morgan Center preschool classes at Terrell,and three classes at Canoas that serve the K-5 population. Four of our five teachers began as IA’s in the program, meeting one of the stated goals of the program, which is to “grow our own”.
There are two autism classes serving the K-5 population at Carson and other autistic students integrated into campuses throughout the district.

4. Kaia Hamilton reported on secondary programs as follows:
•SJUSD is in partnership with the Garcia-Winner clinic
•We have a class at Muir operating in partnership with Beacon School, with staff receiving social skills training. There are eight students in the program; the program is able to grow to twelve.This class accommodates more involved students who need a sheltered environment. Higher functioning students are integrated into the regular program.
•Special Ed has purchased the Garcia-Winner curriculum. There are enough materials for three more classes but teachers are reluctant to commit to teaching these classes.
5. The committee reviewed the results of the parent survey which was given at the end of the 06-07 school year. It was noted that satisfaction rate was high at the elementary level
where resources have been concentrated. The committee will analyze the results further at the November meeting. Results of the survey will be posted to the committee link on the SJUSD website.

6. The committee discussed the purpose of the proposed staff survey and identified general topics that should be included in the survey. Kathy and Lynn will meet with Marcy Lauck to share this input and generate questions that will produce quantifiable data in these categories. The results of that meeting will be shared with the committee at the November meeting.

7. The committee reviewed and revised the draft Master Plan. Work on this will be ongoing until it is completed.

8. The next committee meeting is Monday, November 5.