My name is Michelle Swanson , and I am the parent of a wonderful, nonverbal autistic child Aleah. My daughter, like many children her age, looks forward to outdoor recess. It is her time to enjoy the fresh air, play, and engage with her peers. However, she is currently being denied this essential part of her school day. Not because she is unable or unwilling to participate, but because the school environment isn't properly equipped to support her particular needs.

My daughter is an eloper, meaning she has a tendency to wander or run, especially in an unfamiliar or unsecured environment. This presents a unique challenge when it comes to her safety during outdoor activities. Schools should be places where every child can learn and play without barriers, but unfortunately, many schools, including ours, lack the necessary infrastructure to make it safe for children like my daughter to do so. This lack of preparedness extends beyond personal needs and into the broader concern for all children's safety on school grounds.

Recess is a critical part of the school day, providing kids with the chance to exercise, socialize, and recalibrate. Yet, for my child and others facing similar situations, this crucial time is often sacrificed. This is not fair, nor should it be acceptable. Children, regardless of their abilities, deserve equal opportunities to participate in all aspects of the school day, especially one as vital as recess.

A key solution is the installation of secure fencing around all elementary school play areas. This simple measure would not only support children with special needs like my daughter but also enhance overall security, protecting all students from potential dangers such as predation or abduction. According to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, thousands of children go missing every year, and adequate school safety measures can be a frontline defense against such occurrences.

The absence of proper fencing is a glaring oversight that needs to be addressed immediately. Installing robust, secure fencing around school properties will provide a controlled environment where all children, including those who might wander, can have the freedom to play safely. It's a reasonable and necessary step towards fostering an inclusive and secure learning atmosphere.

This is a call to our local school district and broader educational authorities to prioritize student safety by taking immediate action. With your support, we can make our schools a safer place, ensuring that every child, regardless of their needs, has the opportunity to enjoy outdoor recess securely. Please join me in signing this petition to make safe, inclusive play a priority in our schools.

Sign this petition to urge our local schools and district to make the necessary changes today.