For many Autistic students, the end of the school year is not lighter. It may actually be less predictable, more socially demanding, louder, and full of transitions.

The first few weeks of school often go smoothly. Everyone is fresh, polite, and hopeful. But for many Autistic students, that “honeymoon” depends on masking—suppressing natural regulation needs and social communication differences to blend in.

When I walked into the classroom, something was deeply off — I felt it in my bones.