As concerned parents, we are starting this petition to address a crucial safety issue at Southside Elementary School. Our wonderful five-year-old daughter, who is significantly visually impaired, attends this school. It deeply concerns us that the exterior stairs of the school have not been equipped with High Visibility Tape, despite its successful application in other areas of the campus.

Our daughter's visual impairment poses significant challenges for her daily life and mobility. While she has adapted remarkably well to her condition, navigating unfamiliar environments can still be daunting for her. The absence of High Visibility Tape on the exterior stairs puts her at risk of potential accidents and injuries.

We have personally witnessed our daughter's struggles while descending these steps. Without any visual cues or contrasting colors to guide her way, she often hesitates and becomes anxious about taking each step safely. This lack of accommodation not only hampers her independence but also affects her overall confidence as a student.

It is disheartening to note that despite multiple requests made by concerned parents, the school administration has chosen not to implement this simple modification that would greatly enhance safety for visually impaired students like our daughter.

To ensure our children's well-being and foster an inclusive learning environment at Southside Elementary School, it is imperative that we take immediate action. By applying High Visibility Tape on the exterior stairs leading up to the main entrance of the school building, we can provide our visually impaired students with clear visual markers that will enable them to navigate independently without fear or hesitation.

Research conducted by reputable organizations such as The American Foundation for the Blind emphasizes how environmental modifications like High Visibility Tape significantly improve accessibility and safety for individuals with visual impairments (source: AFB.org). By implementing this solution at Southside Elementary School, we are aligning ourselves with best practices endorsed by experts in this field.

We, the concerned parents and community members, urge the school administration to prioritize the safety and well-being of our visually impaired students. By taping the exterior stairs with High Visibility Tape, we can create a safer environment that empowers these students to navigate their surroundings confidently.

Sign this petition today to ensure that Southside Elementary School takes immediate action in making this vital modification. Together, let's advocate for a more inclusive and secure learning environment for all students, regardless of their visual abilities.

Brittany and Joseph Hewitt