About DADD

Mission Statement: To foster an inclusive and equitable community that encourages and promotes professional growth, research, and research findings that advance positive educational and life outcomes for individuals with developmental disabilities, including autistic individuals and those with intellectual disability. 

Vision: To establish the Division on Autism and Developmental Disabilities (DADD) as a leading and impactful organization for educational professionals by: 

1. Fostering a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (accessibility + belonging)
2. Empowering educational professionals to build confidence and skills 
3. Connecting resources that promote positive outcomes for individuals with developmental disabilities, including autistic individuals and those with intellectual disability

We believe that: 

• All people can learn and enact agency in their lives, and all students have the right to an equitable and effective education 
• Diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (accessibility + belonging) are central to quality of life and are critical to demonstrate and advocate for 
• Research-based practices should inform education 
• Highly supported and well-informed educators are key to success and opportunities for students 
• Ethical governance practices are transparent, consistent, and open to scrutiny