The Ziggurat Model is a valuable resource for public school professionals who must remain in compliance with federal and state guidelines. Specifically, recent trends in special education law emphasize the use of scientifically based research approaches along with a focus on Response to Intervention (RTI). Additionally, there is a strong push for incorporating positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) based on a functional behavioral assessment. The Ziggurat Model is consistent with these practices.

The Ziggurat Model emphasizes a proactive, positive approach by requiring reinforcement and antecedent-based interventions. Ongoing assessment allows for changes to the intervention plan at each level gauged on progress. Finally, the Ziggurat Model promotes collaboration and communication among parents and professionals. The assessment tools are designed to incorporate the perspectives of multiple team members while assuring that they work from the same reference point—the individual's underlying characteristics of autism. A worksheet that promotes collaboration by helping parents and professionals to understand their part in the larger intervention picture will be presented. Through the use of the Ziggurat Model, the whole truly is greater than the sum of its parts.

Participants will be able to:

• Identify the relationship of underlying characteristics of HFA/AS with observable behavior • List five areas required for a comprehensive intervention • Describe research validated strategies for intervention