Demand for autism services growing fast in South Carolina schools

From The AP:

COLUMBIA, S.C. -- South Carolina education officials say the growing number
of students with autism are creating a heavy demand for school services.

According to the state Education Department, the number of students listed with autism as their leading disorder has more than doubled in five years, from 1,283 in 2003 to 2,685 in 2007. Figures for 2008 were incomplete.

Autism specialist Alisha Carey told The State newspaper of Columbia in Friday editions the biggest difficulty dealing with autistic students is their wide range of abilities. Teachers have to tailor education programs to each child's needs and capabilities, which requires time and training.

The issues require specialists in several areas, including behavior, speech, psychology and physical therapy.