Carla Martins de Barros, a public school director in Brazil, recently drew controversy after a video was released where she referred to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as a 'fashion disorder.' The backlash from this comment led her to request a leave of absence from her position at the Odair Lúcio Municipal School, known for its specialized programs for students with autism. The school has been actively engaging in promoting inclusion and providing educational interventions for autistic students on social media.

In terms of her professional background, Barros holds degrees in pedagogy and educational guidance and has been a civil servant in Gurupi since 2018, earning a gross salary of R$ 9,612.80, as per transparency portal data. The public reaction to her comments has been significant, leading to discussions about the perception of autism in society and the responsibilities of educational leaders in promoting accurate information about such conditions.

The Municipal Prosecutor's Office is conducting an investigation into the incident, prompted by the outcry from the community and educational stakeholders. According to the Municipal Department of Education, her leave was self-requested, and she has offered to assist authorities in clarifying her statements regarding autism.