Crusader Athletics Leadership Council Autism Awareness

On Wednesday, April 20, 2016, members of the Crusader Athletic Leadership Council participated in the Clark School District’s Autism Awareness Day at the Clark Pre-School.
Autism is one of a group of serious developmental problems called autism spectrum disorders that appear in early childhood, usually before age three. Though symptoms and severity vary, all autism spectrum disorders affect a child’s ability to communicate and interact with others. The number of children diagnosed with autism appears to be rising. It’s not clear whether this is due to better detection and reporting of autism or a real increase in the number of cases or both. While there is no cure for autism, intensive, early treatment can make a big difference in the lives of many children with the disorder.
C.A.L.C. members participated in numerous events throughout the occasion that not only were enjoyable for all of the children, but also raised awareness for autism. In addition, the teachers had a multitude of activities relating to autism that incorporated C.A.L.C. members, and preschool students alike. Some of these events included: bowling, basketball, ice cream relay, foam ball toss, soccer, scooter relay, coloring autism ribbon craft, wiffle ball, obstacle course, and parachute toss.
C.A.L.C. members Ryan Bohm, Wyatt Bohm, Kelsey Briscese, Liam Deacy, Riley Delaney, Michael DeMarco, Nicholas DiGeronimo, Jonathan Duffy, Justin Falke, Wes Giannobile, Sean Kovatch, Molly Panetta, Gianna Randazza, Anthony Rizzuto, Andrew Sanchez, Zack Sandler, Dominique Smith, Stephanie Visconte,  Sydney Zamboni, and Gabriella Zatko all participated in the event.
Arthur L. Johnson High School’s Athletic Director, Gus Kalikas, had this to say about the event. “The C.A.L.C. was thrilled to be able to assist with the Clark School District’s Autism Awareness Day events at the Clark Pre-School. It was fun watching the High School Student Athletes as they interacted with the young children, and I think both groups not only enjoyed the experience, but learned a lot while doing it. All of the Clark Pre-School should be commended for the wonderful event that was put together to bring awareness to autism.”
Lori Kowalski, Clark Pre-School Supervisor  and Nurse, expressed. “I could not have been happier with our 4th Annual Autism Awareness Event! All of those who participated in Wednesday’s event seemed to have a smile on their face from start to finish. It was a great day all around”
The C.A.L.C. would like to thank Special Education teacher Kelly Moscarella, and Physical Education teacher Ashley Tenpenny for their efforts throughout the day. Special thanks to Valerie LaManna, Stefanie DeVizio, Pre-School Supervisor and Nurse Lori Kowalski, and everyone associated with the Clark Pre-School for welcoming us and allowing us to be a part of a fabulous day.