Communities of Leaders in Autism

COMMUNITIES OF LEADERS IN AUTISM (COLA)

What is CoLA?

Communities of Leaders in Autism is a collaborative network of educators and professionals dedicated to improving outcomes for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). CoLA connects school division leaders with resources, strategies, and a supportive network to drive systemic change.

Who supports CoLA?

CoLA is a collaborative platform, supported by the Virginia Department of Education in collaboration with VDOE TTAC Centers, VCU RRTC's Autism Center for Education, and the Customized Behavior Application Training Team.

CoLA Members...

Act as liaisons between their divisions and CoLA supporters by ensuring effective communication and collaboration.
Advocate for the needs of students with ASD within their divisions by employing strategic systems aligned with VDOE priorities to improve educational outcomes.
Attend monthly sessions where they learn and apply this information, thus enhancing their ability to manage leadership tasks effectively.

Why Join CoLA?

Collaborative Network: Connect with a network of leaders to share resources and strategies.
Professional Development: Access training, coaching, and development opportunities.
Impactful Change: Play a role in shaping systemic improvements and enhancing student outcomes.

CoLA Membership Includes:

Regional resources and events

Professional development courses and resources offered by partner agencies

Participation in monthly activity sessions to include the following activities of engagement:
- Division Highlights
- Tech and App Talks
- Media Studies
- Email and online resource sharing
- Virtual office hours for implementation assistance
- Individual consultations

How to Register

Designate a team of up to three members from your division.
Ensure at least one member is an experienced educator.
Complete the CoLA Membership Registration Form with details of your team and division.