Kathryn DuBray, DSW, LMSW

1943-at first glance, it looks like just a number. But in the context of autism, it holds historical weight. In 1943, autism was first formally described in clinical literature by Dr. Leo Kanner. This moment is often referenced as the beginning of autism as a recognized diagnosis. But it is important to be clear about what that actually means. It was not the beginning of autism. It was the beginning of documentation. Autism Did Not Start in 1943 Autistic individuals have always existed....

At Anniston Academy, we do not start with compliance. We start with regulation. Because a child who is overwhelmed, dysregulated, or shut down is not refusing to learn.They are unable to access learning . What Does Regulation Actually Mean? Regulation is the ability to feel safe enough in your body to engage with the world. It is not about being quiet. It is not about sitting still. It is not about looking like you are paying attention. It is about feeling grounded, feeling safe, feeling...

At Anniston Academy, we don’t see “special interests” as something to redirect or limit. We see them for what they are: powerful, meaningful, and deeply human ways of engaging with the world. For many neurodivergent individuals—especially autistic individuals—special interests are not just hobbies. They are sources of regulation, connection, identity, and learning. And when we honor them, everything changes. What Are “Special Interests,” Really? Special interests are often described...