Hillsborough Schools First In NJ To Roll Out Autism Education Program

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Hillsborough Township recently became the first school district in New Jersey to roll out a program that teaches elementary and middle school students about children with autism.

According to a news release from the district, Hillsborough schools implemented the "Kits for Kids" peer education program created by the Virginia-based Organization for Autism Research. The program'"goal is to "promote empathy and autism acceptance among today's youth," the release stated.

"This program is a great example of social and emotional learning and helps students understand and empathize with those around them, most especially students with autism," Superintendent Mike Volpe said in a statement.

According to the district, the program was incorporated into the school counseling program. The school counselor then read a book to all K-4 classes about a boy named Nick, narrated through the eyes of a child with autism. According to the district, the story focused on displaying empathy for children, especially those with autism.

"With the third and fourth-grade students, we read the book together and had a nice conversation about similarities and differences. Many of the students have been able to relate to Nick or know someone personally with autism," Hillsborough Elementary School counselor Jennifer Baccarini said. "Some students have shared personal experiences,s which were really nice to hear."

Baccarini continued, "With the kindergarten, first-grade, and second-grade students, we have been talking about the word 'accepting' and what that means, as well as drawing pictures showing what being a good friend looks like. With all the grades we have also been discussing how we are all different and that is what makes not only (Hillsborough Elementary School), but the world a more interesting and wonderful place."

Since 2012, the Organization for Autism Research has taught more than 190,000 children across the globe about autism through the "Kit for Kids" program. The core program includes 20 story booklets, a student-led lesson plan, a classroom poster and information for parents and teachers.

The nonprofit was formed and is led by families of children and adults with autism spectrum disorders. Learn more about the organization on its website at www.researchautism.org.