APA Statement on White House Autism Announcement

“Today’s White House event on autism was filled with dangerous claims and misleading information that sends a confusing message to parents and expecting parents and does a disservice to autistic individuals.

“Studies have repeatedly found no credible link between life-saving childhood vaccines and autism. This research, in many countries, involving thousands of individuals, has spanned multiple decades. Any effort to misrepresent sound, strong science poses a threat to the health of children.

“Pediatricians know firsthand that children’s immune systems perform better after vaccination against serious, contagious diseases like polio, measles, whooping cough and Hepatitis B. Spacing out or delaying vaccines means children will not have immunity against these diseases at times when they are most at risk.”

“Regarding autism, we know it is complex, highly variable and increasingly linked to genetics. There is no single, root cause of autism, and there is no single medication that will give every autistic child or adult what they need. Individualized plans, often involving a combination of developmental, behavioral, educational and social-relational strategies, can help improve outcomes that are meaningful to individuals and families. We also need and welcome additional investments in federally funded research to better support families of autistic children.”

“Families who have questions about their child’s medications, autism care plans or other health care should consult with their pediatrician or health care provider. The AAP remains committed to providing accurate information to guide pediatricians and parents in making decisions that are family centered and individualized to meet every child’s needs and goals.”

Congratulations to our newest cohort of graduates!
This dedicated group includes teachers and administrators currently serving in Connecticut’s special education system who are preparing to step into leadership roles as Special Education Directors across the state. This initiative is vital, as Connecticut faces a limited pool of qualified candidates—due to the state’s many school districts, a retiring generation of special education leaders, and a growing number of students eligible for services under IDEA.

Applications are now open for graduate student trainees and self-advocate, parent, family, and community member trainees for the 2025-2026 academic year.

Visit the CT LEND main page to learn more, download an application guide, and apply today!

Application review will begin on April 15, 2025 and continue until the cohort is filled.

March 18^th was Medicaid Day of Action, a nationwide event that urged us to stand up and speak out against proposed Medicaid cuts that would devastate our most vulnerable neighbors. Thousands rallied at the Connecticut State Capitol to raise their voices, because it’s not about numbers — it’s about people.

One powerful voice, Melissa Thompson, who relies on Medicaid for her disability needs, reminded us of what’s at stake. CT State Comptroller Sean Scanlon said it best: “They are using their agendas to take our country back to a time when we let the most vulnerable in our society be completely and utterly neglected.”

With the 60th anniversary of Medicaid approaching, the urgency is clear. Congress is proposing $80 billion in cuts — that’s $880 million lost for Connecticut, threatening healthcare for 900,000 CT residents, including pregnant people, seniors in nursing homes, and individuals with disabilities — our friends, family, and loved ones.

Thank you to Rep. Joe Courtney, Rep. John Larson, Rep. Rosa DeLauro, Senator Blumenthal, Senator Murphy, Lt Governor Susan Bysiewicz, and Governor Lamont — we need your continued leadership now more than ever. We’re counting on you.