 When Judith H. Cohen reviewed Michael’s application to enter a competitive honors college, she noticed the usual good grades and high SAT scores. What struck her as different was Michael’s high school. Her colleague had asked her to interview Michael because she was unfamiliar with his school, but assumed it was a private prep school. Judith knew it was a school for students with severe disabilities. She would soon learn Michael was autistic.
Not only did Michael get accepted into the honors program for secondary math education, he excelled. It is rare for even a high-functioning autistic to complete a mainstream college program. While many autistics have extremely high intelligence, the social aspects and independence required can make it daunting. Michael’s ability to socialize improved greatly during his college career. He even lived in the dorm with a roommate for a year. Judith Cohen, his former professor and mentor, tells his story in Succeeding with Autism: Hear My Voice (May 2005, Jessica Kingsley Publishers, $19.95; 1-84310-793-7).
Judith Cohen became a friend to both Michael and his family during his time as a student in the teacher education program. As she tells his story, she reflects on the key issues of autism at each stage of development. Temple Grandin, a New York Times bestselling author who also happens to be autistic says in her forward, “This book will provide insights into helping a person with autism make a successful transition from the world of school to the world of world of work.”
Currently, Michael teaches secondary math at a private high school. Judith Cohen is a Full Professor of Education at Adelphi University, NY. She holds a Ph.D. in Literacy Education with a specialization in special education. Dr. Cohen is also an attorney in New York State and works as a child advocate in both school districts and the courts. She is a published author of many articles, curriculum materials and textbooks, and has been a well respected teacher and educator for over 30 years.
Jessica Kingsley Publishers specializes in producing accessible professional and academic books in the social and behavioral sciences. In 2007, Jessica Kingsley Publishers was named both the Academic & Professional Publisher of the Year and the overall Independent Publisher of the Year at the Independent Publishing Awards in London. The prizes coincide with Jessica Kingsley Publishers' 20th year as an independent company. Jessica Kingsley books are available worldwide through distributors, local bookstores and online bookstores. The company has offices in London and Philadelphia. More information can be found at www.jkp.com. |
