Leading Autism Acceptance Across Rockaway Schools
For more than 20 years, Dave Koenig has dedicated his career to teaching students with autism. He describes the work as his true calling.
What began in 2002 as a single‑student autism program at Katharine D. Malone School in Rockaway Township has grown into three elementary classes and one middle school class. Over the years, Koenig has watched countless students grow in ways that once seemed unimaginable. One former student, now 27, graduated from high school, works with a job coach, and volunteers at the local library.
“When you look back and remember them at five years old and then see what they’re doing now, things you never thought were possible, it’s incredible to be a small part of that,” says Koenig, known affectionately as Mr. K.
Beyond the classroom, Koenig has been an Autism Ambassador for more than a decade, using Autism New Jersey materials including posters, rack cards, bookmarks, and kid’s guides to promote acceptance. He plays a leading role in Autism Awareness initiatives across the Rockaway school district, including a presentation to the Board of Education, an "open autism experience" where general education faculty can observe his classroom techniques, and a mentor program.
Koenig also helps organize Autism Awareness Spirit Week, where each day teaches a different concept. Comfy Cozy Day, for example, teaches about sensory processing, while Team Jersey Day highlights teamwork and inclusion. Koenig also sets up a snack shack where kids from his class sell food to the teachers throughout the month.
“Someone may look like you, but they may not experience the world the same way,” Koenig said. “That’s an important lesson for kids to learn early.”
