Kali was excited to start fifth grade. She loves drawing and making bird noises.

Kali also has autism.

Loud noises and big crowds can overwhelm her at times.

During Kali's first day of school, the cafeteria was loud. Students were laughing, teachers were talking, and chairs were scraping on the floor. Kali covered her ears and yelled, "It is too loud in here!" as loudly as she could.

Kali's teacher, Ms. Brown, sat next to her and said, "Kali, you are safe. Would you like to go somewhere quiet?"

Kali shook her head and said, "Yes."

They walked to a calmer corner so Kali could relax.

After school, Kali's teacher spoke with her parents about the cafeteria incident and spoke with them about the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. She explained that the IDEA helps students with disabilities by providing support to help them learn in school.

Kali had an IEP due to her autism. Her IEP helped everyone understand how she learns, what supports she needs, and all the goals she had to reach in her fifth-grade year.

Kali's IEP included quiet breaks when the environment was noisy, extended time on assignments, and picture schedules.

These types of support help Kali to be ready to learn.