[than a high functioning Autistic.]
I think part of the perception problem is that the `Autistic` label is way too ambiguous.
Just saying “he’s autistic” is not adequate to describe the associated condition of a specific individual.
Clearly not all autistics are equal. It appears a broader, more descriptive, vocabulary is required to comprehend the complete range of conditions that are labled with the word Autistic.
If you meet one child with autism you have met just one child with autism. They all present differently. There is no boilerplate treatment. It is individualized to the child, which is the entire concept of an IEP.
A detailed diagnosis of each child is not necessary for you. Once you hear "Special Needs Child" you drag your children away from them as if they had the plague. What's wrong, are you afraid they are going to catch "Down Syndrome or Austim"?