In response to increased demand for training and assistance in schools and communities across the country, Northeast Wisconsin Technical College is set to launch an autism technician technical diploma for the summer and fall semesters.
NWTC is the first college in Wisconsin to have a program dedicated to autism education.
“We are really excited about starting the autism technician technical diploma program at NWTC,” said Kay Tupala, NWTC dean of health sciences. “We know that it will not only expand the knowledge of future education leaders, but also to help bring awareness and understanding about autism to the community.
“We take great pride in setting the pace for a future that creates strong communities and quality of life for everyone in northeast Wisconsin.”
Students enrolled in the 28-credit program will be trained to work directly with persons with autism in a variety of settings, including child care, home and school.
Autism is a developmental disorder that disconnects children from their environment and other people. Currently, autism cannot be cured, but it can be treated. One in 68 8-year-old children are identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
The new NWTC program is designed for behavior technicians, child care teachers, paraeducators, teachers, teaching assistants, parents, relatives and caregivers.
“This new technical diploma can appeal to those already working in the field or those who want to support people in the community with autism,” said Tracy Blahnik, NWTC health sciences and education instructor.
The program is a mix of both early childhood education and paraeducator courses and includes hours in a practicum placement directly working with persons with autism. Course work will include teaching methods, applied behavior analysis and managing behavior, communication systems and technology, supporting teachers’ and following senior behavior technicians’ learning plans at school or in a home setting, supporting individual personal hygiene needs, and transitioning beyond school.
For information, visit https://www.nwtc.edu/Programs/Pathways/Human-Services-and-Education/Fami....