Special Education Listserv

Subject: Autism/On-site Consultations

Source: Angie Nickell, Supervisor, Effective Practices Section

Intended Audience: Directors of Special Education, Teachers

Date: January 23, 2008

Missouri Autism Consultants (MACS) are available through Project ACCESS, a project funded by DESE through Missouri State University, as a way to promote access to the on-site autism consultation model.

MACs are talented and expert individuals in the areas of autism.  MACs are also knowledgeable in special education law and process.  Project ACCESS selects MACs through an application process, trains them, monitors their effectiveness and ongoing education in autism, and sends them out across the state to consult in requesting school districts. 

Districts interested in receiving a visit from a MAC can call Project ACCESS toll free at 1-866-481-3841 or locally at 417-895-5575.  Project ACCESS staff will match a MAC with the school district to best meet the needs of the student(s) and staff.  The MAC will contact the school directly to set up the details to complete the on-site consultation.  There is a $350 fee for the day's consult plus expenses (mileage, food, and lodging (if necessary)).  During the on-site visit, the MAC will collaborate with the student's team to determine workable solutions for the student's programming.  The MAC has the knowledge and skills to assist the IEP team in determining eligibility criteria and programming for students with autism.

After the consultation, the MAC will invoice the school district directly and provide a written summary report of the visit.  Project ACCESS will follow up the visit via e-mail, survey, or phone call to collect data on the satisfaction of the district with the MAC consultation.

For more information, please visit Project Access at:  http://education.missouristate.edu/access/.