Carla Martins de Barros, the director of the Municipal Full-Time School Odair Lúcio in Gurupi, Brazil, has requested a leave of absence after a controversial video went viral in which she labeled Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as a 'fad disorder.' The video, shared on social media, sparked significant outrage, prompting the municipal education authorities to launch an investigation led by the Office of the Attorney General of the Municipality to assess her comments and the broader implications for the students and the community.

In her remarks, Barros included statements about her intolerance of aggressive behavior exhibited by autistic children, focusing on her personal perceptions rather than established understanding of ASD, which is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder affecting social interaction and communication. Her views have drawn criticism from parents, educators, and advocates for autism rights, who emphasize the importance of accurate representation and understanding of autism, particularly in educational settings where acceptance and support are crucial for the wellbeing of autistic students.

In light of these developments, the Secretary of Municipal Education, Semeg, confirmed that Barros voluntarily stepped down to allow for an impartial investigation. She has committed to cooperating with the authorities to clarify her statements. This situation raises concerns about the prevailing attitudes toward autism in the educational system, highlighting the need for better training and awareness to prevent harmful misconceptions about neurodiversity from influencing school environments.