ESC Region 5 provides support and professional development to serve families and professionals working with students with autism in a variety of settings. Staff development and technical assistance are available to support districts and families in achieving student success. Training sessions are designed to address the full range of student, district and parent needs which include, but are not limited to: communication strategies, analyzing behavior, academic skills, social understanding, parent and family needs, assessment and instructional strategies.
About Autism
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) defines autism as a developmental disability significantly affecting verbal communication, nonverbal communication, and social interaction. Other characteristics often associated with autism are: engagement in repetitive activities and stereotyped movements; resistance to environmental change or change in daily routines; and unusual responses to sensory experiences. The characteristics of autism are generally evident before age three, but a child who manifests the characteristics after age three could be identified as having autism if the eligibility criteria are satisfied. Texas has also published Commissioner’s Rules regarding autism eligibility (§ 89.1040). According to the Centers for Disease Control, autism affects an estimated 1 in 31 children and 1 in 45 adults in the United States today.
Team Members
Killey Hays
Program Coordinator
Email Killey Hays
409-951-1745
Hannah Jobe
Program Coordinator
Email Hannah Jobe
409-951-1737
Program information from Region 5, checked September 7, 2026. View the official source page.