Laura Kirsch a 'kind, outgoing, caring' autism advocate

Laura Kirsch, 17, of Ward Melville High School has spent most of her school-age life as an advocate for autism research and awareness. She participated in a local walk when she was in first grade to raise money for it.

Two years later, as a third-grader, she formed team Kirsch with her older sister, Sarah. The team -- inspired by Kirsch's older brother Daniel, who is autistic -- walks annually for Autism Speaks, a science and advocacy organization. They have raised more than $50,000 for autism research. Kirsch, 17, is also on the varsity track and cross country team, and is a volunteer coach for 20-year-old David's running team. She is also a second-degree black belt in tae kwon do.

Kirsch, who is taking honors and Advanced Placement courses, is a member of the National Honor Society and has received the presidential community service award. "School has always been very important [to me] and very important to my family, so it's kind of like second nature," she said. The same could be said of her devotion to her brother, which has spilled over to others.

In eighth grade, Kirsch began an in-school program that pairs the disabled with other students who mentor and interact with them by playing games, baking and sharing library time. The Friendship Circle is an active part of the school's Key Club.

Her plans: To attend Cornell University's school of human ecology and major in policy analysis and management.

In her words: "I hope to study disability law and possibly become a lawyer for people with disabilities."

The view from the principal's office: "Laura is a kind, outgoing, caring individual who takes care of herself and others," said her principal, Alan J. Baum.