The prevalence of Autism is increasing exponentially in today's classrooms, such that general education teachers face a broad range of challenges within inclusive settings (Leech, 2008). This study investigated the degree of teacher preparedness in teaching autistic students in general education and special education classrooms by examining the literature regarding autism and teacher readiness in teaching students with Autism. The data collected in the study was sought from 10 general education and special education teachers working with autistic students from pre-kindergarten to 12th grades in rural South Texas schools. Teachers were interviewed using a primarily qualitative study design focused on teachers' points of view and experiences working with autistic students (Seidman, 2013). The teachers participating in this study were asked to respond to several semi-structured questions concerning their training to teach autistic students, their teaching of autistic students in the classroom, and their current effective practices used in teaching autistic students. The interviews revealed the teacher's perceptions of their level of preparedness for working with autistic students. The data from the interviews found six significant themes: training and staff development, attitudes and perceptions, instructional strategies, challenges and adaptations, building positive relationships, and teacher recommendations. Through the interviews and the data analysis, it was discovered that teachers' lack of understanding and training in teaching Autistic students affects the quality of education and a supportive learning environment for Autistic students. Further research is needed to examine the inclusive educational models and teacher training to create informed policies and practices to promote a more inclusive classroom learning environment for Autistic students. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]