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What We Do
We believe in…
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Utilizing culturally competent, evidence-based practices to enhance education
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Empowering autistic individuals
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Supporting autistic individuals of all ages, stages, and abilities
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Making resources available to all
Our Mission
We strive to increase understanding and support for autistic Alaskans of all ages.
We provide free autism resources, information, and training. Our specialists can help to connect you to the service providers that may best fit you our your child's needs.
Land Acknowledgment
AARC services are brought to you on the traditional lands of Alaska's indigenous people.
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With gratitude and respect, we recognize the contributions and perspectives of those who came before us.
Meet the Team
Kelly Maki, MS
Autism Resource Specialist
Kelly has been part of the SESA team since 2024. She is an Autism Resource Specialist for the Alaska Autism Resource Center, AARC. She has been an educator since 2001 and has her Master of Special Education and Educational Leadership. She has served as a Special Education Teacher, Professional Development Facilitator, Novice Teacher Mentor, Instruction and athletic coach, and School Administrator in Florida and Alaska. In her spare time, she likes to go camping, kayaking, fishing (especially ice fishing), and watching all types of documentaries. Kelly believes in person-first thinking and celebrates individuality to determine the most appropriate interventions and tools to support all persons.
Peggy "GG" Chang, MS
Autism Resource Specialist
Peggy "GG" Chang returned to SESA in 2026 as an Autism Specialist with the Low Incidence Disabilities program and the Alaska Autism Resource Center (AARC). She previously served at SESA from 2008 to 2010. GG holds a bachelor's degree in Applied Sociology and a master's degree in Special Education from Texas State University. Her professional experience includes teaching in special education settings in Texas, New York, and Alaska. She has also provided individualized in-home support for individuals with Autism. As a specialist, GG is committed to building relationships within Alaska's diverse communities, sharing knowledge, and supporting the state's varied educational needs. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, staying active, and continuing to learn new things.
Peggy "GG" Chang, MS
Autism Resource Specialist
Peggy "GG" Chang returned to SESA in 2026 as an Autism Specialist with the Low Incidence Disabilities program and the Alaska Autism Resource Center (AARC). She previously served at SESA from 2008 to 2010. GG holds a bachelor's degree in Applied Sociology and a master's degree in Special Education from Texas State University. Her professional experience includes teaching in special education settings in Texas, New York, and Alaska. She has also provided individualized in-home support for individuals with Autism. As a specialist, GG is committed to building relationships within Alaska's diverse communities, sharing knowledge, and supporting the state's varied educational needs. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, staying active, and continuing to learn new things.
AARC specialists are passionate about promoting autism inclusion and education throughout the state of Alaska.
