ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – Castillo de San Marcos National Monument became the first national park to earn the Certified Autism Center designation.
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On Jan. 15 at 10 a.m., the Castillo de San Marcos will host a press conference with the City of St. Augustine, the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce (SJCCC), and the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) to celebrate the milestone.
The certification is part of a larger initiative led by the SJCCC aiming to become a Certified Autism Destination.
Officials said this will ensure multiple options for autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals and their families.
“Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is proud to be the first U.S. national park area designated as a Certified Autism Center by IBCCES,” Superintendent Gordie Wilson said. “Park staff are committed to the National Park Service’s vision to provide amazing, meaningful experiences for everyone who visits these national treasures. This initial step helps us rise to the challenge of creating a fun, equitable, and accessible environment where visitors thrive.”
Castillo de San Marcos staff completed specialized training and certification and best practices to assist visitors.
“We’re proud to partner with Castillo de San Marcos National Monument as they provide critical knowledge about our past and protect this amazing historic landmark,” Myron Pincomb, IBCCES board chairman said.
An on-site review from IBCCES will be used to influence decision-making and program development to make the in-person and online visitor experience accessible to all.