On Wednesday April 2nd, the students and staff at Park Avenue Memorial Elementary School helped spread awareness about autism by taking part in the “Light It Up Blue” campaign.  This event is held on April 2nd each year which is recognized as World Autism Awareness Day.  The students watched an Autism Awareness Public Service Announcement put together by Mrs. Parmentier, Park Avenue Special Education Coordinator, the special education teachers, support staff and Park Avenue administrators.  The halls of Park Avenue looked like a sea of blue with staff and students taking part in this important event.

In 2007, the United Nations designated April 2nd as a day where all member nations participate in ways to help spread awareness about autism. The CDC reports that 1 in every 68 children in the United States is diagnosed with autism and the numbers continue to rise. Autism affects tens of millions of people around the world today.  By showing tremendous support, the Park Avenue students and staff helped to raise awareness about autism and helped those living with autism to be understood and accepted.