Autism advocacy and awareness are very near and dear to my heart. I've been blessed with the opportunity to know and work with many people on the autism spectrum. In my career as an educator, I've seen firsthand the wonderful gifts that those with autism bring to our world.

Some of you may know that my late brother-in-law, Matthew Reitz, was an individual on the autism spectrum. He affectionately referred to himself as an "autist"; rather than focus on the challenges presented by his diagnosis, he elected to emphasize the unique strengths that his neurodivergent perspective offered. Any of you who had the pleasure to know him can surely attest that his perspective was a one-of-a-kind blend of humor and brilliance.

April 2024 marks the sixth anniversary of his untimely death, and I could think of no better tribute than to raise funds in the name of Autism Speaks, a charity that he believed strongly in. This is an organization that, like Matt, highlights the strengths of autism rather than the weaknesses, offering those with ASD and their families a voice of advocacy, awareness, and support. Please join me in supporting Autism Speaks! Any amount helps!