Anacortes School District: A Guide for Supporting Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
The Anacortes School District (ASD) is deeply committed to the equity, access, and well-being of every student, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Understanding the unique needs of students with ASD is crucial for fostering a supportive and successful learning environment. This guide provides an overview of ASD, the resources available within the Anacortes School District, and key information for families and educators.
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong developmental disability that affects a student's educational performance in academic, behavioral, and social areas. ASD is typically manifested before 36 months of age, although a child who first manifests the characteristics after age 3 may also meet the criteria.
Resources and Support within Anacortes School District
The Anacortes School District is dedicated to providing a continuum of educational placements for students with ASD, from pre-kindergarten through post-secondary, who require special education services.
Continuum of Educational Placements
The district offers a range of support options to meet the diverse needs of students with ASD:
General Education Classroom: The first step on the continuum is the general education classroom with or without special education support. Students may receive needed accommodations by the general education teacher. General education teachers may receive strategies/accommodation support from special education staff.
Read also: Comprehensive ETAR Guide
Special Education Support: The second and third steps on the continuum offer more support from special education staff, who may provide anywhere from 1-3 hours of direct or indirect support to a full day of special education programming with other students with disabilities (not only ASD).
Center Programs: ASD classroom located in a general education building with special and general education students assigned to the building (designated for students who exhibit moderate to severe characteristics of ASD).
Separate Facility Programs: ASD classroom located in a separate facility with only special education students assigned to the building (designated for students who exhibit severe characteristics of ASD).
The ultimate goal of a center program is to provide students with the skills they need to successfully return to their resident district.
Wayne RESA ASD Staff
Wayne RESA ASD staff provides online resources and supports to our districts, students, and families.
Read also: Accessing the Cal Poly Portal
Certificate of Completion
The majority of students in an ASD center-based program follow the Common Core Essential Elements (CCEE). Therefore most students, who exit an ASD center program after completing the high school curriculum, are eligible for a certificate of completion - not a diploma. Diplomas are issued based on the MMC aligned to the Common Core State Standards.
Prioritizing Student Safety and Well-being
The safety and well-being of all students and staff remain the highest priority for Anacortes School District. The district does not tolerate threats of any kind and asks for partnership in reinforcing with students the seriousness of making any statements related to school violence.
Reporting Concerns
We rely on students, families, and staff to promptly report any threats or concerns so that immediate action may be taken.
Annual Update in Skyward Family Access
All families are required to complete their Annual Update in Skyward Family Access before school begins. This step ensures that your student’s contact information, emergency contacts, health forms, and transportation requests are accurate and up to date.
School Meals
Anacortes School District provides free breakfast and lunch for all students at Mount Erie, Island View, and Fidalgo Elementary schools (HB 1238) and at Cap Sante High School (CEP school). Even if your child attends one of these schools, you must still complete the Child Nutrition Eligibility and Education Benefit Application each year.
Read also: Accessing the MUSD Student Portal
House Bill 1238 requires school districts to provide free meals at elementary schools where at least 30% of students qualify for free or reduced-price meals, based on the previous year’s data. By completing the annual update, including the online meal application, you help ensure these benefits continue for our students!
Back-to-School Guide
The Anacortes School District Back-to-School Guide for 2025-2026 is ready to help families prepare for a smooth and successful start to the year. This all-in-one digital resource has everything you need in one convenient place.
Bus Routes & Transportation
Updated routes and stop times are now available through the My Ride K-12 app (replacing Ride 360).
Child Find Program
The Anacortes School District is proud to provide free developmental screenings for children from birth through age 5 (as of August 31) through its Child Find program. Child Find is a free, early developmental screening designed to assess key areas of a young child’s growth. The screening is conducted through engaging and age-appropriate activities that help trained specialists observe important developmental milestones.
Early childhood is a critical period for growth and development. Identifying developmental delays or concerns as early as possible allows families and educators to access resources and interventions that can significantly improve a child’s success in school and life. To schedule a free developmental screening for your child, please contact Lora Billow at (360) 503-1446.
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