Today, she is the school's executive director, overseeing a growing program that provides comprehensive education for children with autism, a developmental disability that typically occurs during the first three years of life and is marked by significant problems in communication and social interaction.
Autism results from a neurological disorder, hindering the proper functioning of the brain.
Designated by the state as Virginia's model school for autism, VIA provides training, consultation and support to parents and professionals throughout the state. I'm able to answer their questions and invite parents to the school to see what we do and to see the progress that can be made with autistic children. In many cases, they see that there is hope when they thought there was none. Drescher has worked closely with education professionals throughout Virginia and with U.Va. to provide internships and practicum placements in adaptive physical education and early childhood special education, as well as research opportunities for doctoral candidates. For some of our students, this means a mainstream educational setting.