Thoughts about Cheryl’s work from
Robert L. Koegel, Ph.D
World Renowned Researcher, Authority and Author on Autism
Director of the Autism Research Center and Professor of Clinical Psychology, University of California, Santa Barbara

“Cheryl has presented the results of her work at National Conferences that I organized (one held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and another held in Santa Barbara, California).  Her presentations were very well received by audiences of approximately 700 professionals and parents, earning her among the best evaluations of the entire conferences.

I participated in two conferences Cheryl organized that were attended by parents and professionals from the western states.  These conferences, organized by Cheryl, were among the best run conferences that I have
participated in over the past 20 years.

Cheryl’s chapter on the development of a full-inclusion school program for children with autism has been one of the best-received chapters in our book.  It is particularly useful to readers because it contains appendix materials that are extremely useful in setting up school curricula.”  [Cheryl’s work can be found in Positive Behavioral Support, edited by Koegel, Koegel & Dunlap and Pivotal Response Treatments, edited by Koegel & Koegel. Both are published by Brookes]

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Thoughts about Cheryl’s work from
H. Michael Day, Ph.D
Independent Living Services, Boise, ID

Cheryl has organized very successful conferences. These conferences brought together educators, service providers and parents to learn about current treatment techniques and expectations for children with autism. These conferences have directly and positively changed how children with autism in Idaho are served.  Many more children are served in neighborhood schools in regular classrooms and expectations about what children with autism can learn have been raised.  In addition, a greater emphasis has been placed on the development of friendships and belonging.

She has also recognized the importance of sharing her story with others.  She has taken the time to get the "word out" about what is possible.  She sponsors workshops explaining her son’s program and the important strategies that make it successful.  Because of this she has served as a model for many parents of what is possible. Parents have told me "Alex is our model".

She also has taken the time to present at schools across the state to children. She has developed a presentation to assist children in understanding about differences and that all people can contribute and “fit in”. She has taught and shared this presentation with other parents so they can facilitate their children's participation in regular education.

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Thoughts about Cheryl’s work from
Barbara O’Rorke,  M.Ed.
Special Education Director in Alex’s School District

Cheryl and I first met when I was special education director for the Jerome school district.  Cheryl is the parent of Alex who has autism.  When he enrolled in school, my staff and I had little knowledge of the nature of autism and the programming and special education placement necessary for Alex to achieve his potential.  Cheryl, over the course of his public education, taught us well.  The knowledge and skills we learned from her have impacted many other students with autism.

Cheryl developed training concerning children with differing abilities for staff and students.  I was fascinated when I observed her present to classrooms of children.  It was obvious to me and others that Cheryl had much to contribute to other professionals and parents based upon the many successes of Alex’s educational program.

Cheryl has had the opportunity to demonstrate her impressive abilities.  She has provided support to persons with disabilities and their families.  I have observed looks of relief and determination on parents’ faces as she taught them skills which empowered them as partners in their children’s educational programs.  Cheryl was a keynote speaker/trainer at our Council for Exceptional Children conference in Sun Valley.  As Governor, for CEC, I received considerable positive feedback from the professionals who attended her sessions.

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What Conference Participants Say in their Evaluations of
 “Alex’s Gift: A Way to Belong” Workshops

Lots of materials and techniques I can use in my classroom for students with many kinds of disabilities.

They told us how to do it and backed it up with real examples.  Great information for all age groups.

Especially helpful were the hands-on information, the sample adapted worksheets and seventh grade IEP.  Examples of adapted materials were wonderful.

Knowledgeable but not clinical.

The “Do’s and Do Not’s for Parents & Teachers” were worth my making the trip.

The ideas that will help me most are about how to help children make friends.  I intend to use your suggestions and God willing, we will never have another “no show” birthday party again.
A million thanks!

One of the most informative conferences I have ever attended.   How to deal with issues on a real life basis.

Cheryl and Alex were a great hit!

Nice to see you address both parents and teachers.

Clear, articulate, organized, first hand experiences.

There is no need for “initials” after her name . . .  and I’m a teacher saying that, not a parent.

Moving and relevant.  Honest and sharing.

The first hand knowledge and experience brought to this topic is inspirational.

She covered the whole spectrum of ideas, with Alex at the core.

Wonderfully informed and enjoyable to listen to.

Thank you!  You gave me hope and courage to do the best for our son.
 I know I have the love, now I know how to have the courage.