March 27, 2026 | Issue 6

Tools for Schools

This week we’re highlighting simple, meaningful ways to promote autism acceptance in your school communities.

First things first: Email your photos to aamonth@autismnj.org! We’d love to feature your unboxing moments, classroom activities, and all the creative ways you’re using your Autism Ambassador supplies in upcoming Connection newsletters.

Read All About It. One of the easiest ways to teach autism acceptance is to read books to students. Here’s a few we like:

The ABC’s of Autism by Rachel Kinnevy-Fitzpatrick: Each letter of the alphabet introduces a new concept that celebrates the strengths, experiences, and differences of autistic children.

Look at What I CAN Do by Ilaina M. Leavitt: This book written by a New Jersey resident celebrates the strengths in every child, focusing on what they can do rather than on what they can’t do.

I See Things Differently by Pat Thomas: This book explains autism in simple terms and helps children understand what everyday life feels like from the perspective of a child with autism.

The Awesome Inside Me by Isabella Monroe: Meet Alex, a bright, curious boy who sees the world in his own incredible way.

You Can Play Too by Coach Tony Vlahovic: This book teaches kids that everyone can be part of a sports team.

Visit the Ambassador Hub for More Ideas

Our Ambassador Hub is packed with free digital tools to enhance school awareness efforts, including:

Lesson Plans for K-2 and Grades 3-6
A Kid's Guide to Autism Acceptance
Fact-A-Day Classroom Calendars
Autism Fact Sheets
And much more!

Download Free Tools for Educators & Kids

Ambassador Spotlight: David Koenig

Dave Koenig, a teacher in the autism program at Katharine D. Malone Elementary School in Rockaway, has been an Autism Ambassador for more than a decade.

He uses Autism New Jersey materials including posters, rack cards, bookmarks, and kid’s guides to promote acceptance. Mr. K, as his students call him, plays a leading role in Autism Awareness initiatives across the Rockaway school district, including a presentation to the Board of Education, an "open autism experience" where general education faculty can observe his classroom techniques, and a mentor program.

Koenig also helps organize Autism Awareness Spirit Week, where each day teaches a different concept. Comfy Cozy Day, for example, teaches about sensory processing, while Team Jersey Day highlights teamwork and inclusion. Koenig also sets up a snack shack where kids from his class sell food to the teachers throughout the month. Read more ➡

“Someone may look like you, but they may not experience the world the same way,” Koenig said. “That’s an important lesson for kids to learn early.”