Alachua Co, FL: Teachers/administers can access "free autism-specific training"

Sept 12, 2026, Autism training comes to classrooms - Alachua County Today

ALACHUA COUNTY – Teachers and administrators in Alachua County Public Schools will have access to free autism-specific training through a new partnership with the University of Florida College of Education aimed at helping educators better support students with autism in the classroom.

The initiative follows a new Florida law requiring school districts to provide at least one autism-specific professional learning opportunity each year for instructional personnel and school-based administrators.

House Bill 851, which became law as Chapter 2026-109 and took effect July 1, requires the training to be developed in consultation with each district’s assigned Center for Autism and Related Disabilities, or CARD. The training must address evidence-based practices for students across varying levels of need, including academic instruction, behavioral supports, communication strategies and inclusive practices.

“Every student deserves a learning environment where they have the opportunity to thrive, and that starts with ensuring educators have the knowledge and tools to meet diverse learning needs,” Alachua County Public Schools Deputy Superintendent Catherine Atria said.

UF’s College of Education is partnering with the school district and the University of Florida Center for Autism and Related Disabilities, or UF CARD, to develop the training. UF CARD serves Alachua County and 13 other Florida school districts.

The new training requirement comes as the number of children identified with autism has risen substantially over the past two decades. . . .

 “CARD’s mission is to provide training, consultation, resources and support that improve outcomes for individuals with autism and related disabilities across the lifespan,” Orlando said. “Because schools play such a critical role in the daily lives of students with autism, we see it as our responsibility to help educators have access to evidence-based strategies and practical tools that can be implemented in the classroom.”

Although state law requires at least one autism-specific professional learning opportunity annually, districts can provide additional training based on local needs and demand. . . .