Local resources for parents, teachers is topic of Dec. 1 event

With the diagnosis rate estimated to be 1 in 110 children, it’s imperative that parents and teachers of students with autism know what local resources are available.

That topic will be addressed at Cal State Monterey Bay on Dec. 1 when the university’s chapter of the Council for Exceptional Children and the state CEC sponsor a free panel discussion from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the University Center on Sixth Avenue.

“Meeting the Needs of Students with Autism: Community Perspectives” will feature panelists Laura Harris, executive director of local nonprofit Special Kids Crusade; Stella Lauerman, community services manager of Easter Seals Central California; and Marcia Weber-Olsen, program specialist with Monterey County’s Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA).

Dr. Josh Harrower, associate professor of special education at CSUMB, will be the moderator.

Students, parents, teachers and community members with an interest in autism are invited to attend. A light dinner will be provided.

Please RSVP to Jacquelline Means at 582-4612. For more information, contact Dr. Cathi Draper Rodriguez at 582-3652.

Driving directions and a campus map are available at csumb.edu/map.