Purpose

I, Tanusri Kondle, 6th grader, have created a bond with the autistic kids at my school and have seen firsthand how much they benefit from specialized programs. However, many schools across the nation lack sufficient resources and programs to support not only autistic students, but ones who desire special needs programs. According to the CDC, 1 in 36 children in the United States is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Despite this high prevalence, there is a significant shortage of tailored educational programs that can help these students thrive.

By increasing funding and implementing special needs programs in schools nationwide, we can provide all children with the support they need to succeed academically and socially.

Basic requirements for the specialized program in each school:

1. Individual Education Plans: Tailor specific plans that address each student’s unique strengths, needs, and goals.
2.  Sensory-Friendly Spaces: Designated quiet areas with sensory toys, where students can go if they become overwhelmed.
3. Structured Environment : Include consistent routines and clear visual schedules.
4. Communication and Behavioral Support: Many have trouble communicating and responding to strong emotions. Teachers should be able to help with that.
5. Professional Training: Suitable training for the staff can teach them how to handle and respond to the students adequately.
6. Peer support programs: Other students in the school can have a chance to socialize with the special student peers.
7. Parental Involvement: Parents should be able to know how their children are developing in school and how they can help!

Cons

If you sign this petition, you are agreeing to the possible effects:

• The budget for regular students attending schools will decrease.
• Staff working at out of school programs may get transferred to teach the same students at a school instead.

Pros

Despite this, I believe that we as a nation should provide equal educational opportunities to everyone, and it has come to my attention that that isn't the case. This is especially because parents usually have to enroll their special needs students into an out of school program that requires fees, while school for everyone else is free! To reinforce the same point, several cases have been reported of districts discriminating against kids with disabilities, for reasons such as the untrained were taking their clothes off. Plus, for all those negative effects are positive ones:

•  Schools with autism programs help promote the concept of neurodiversity, recognizing neurological differences as a natural part of human diversity.
• By offering more autism programs, the nation demonstrates its commitment to equality and inclusivity.
• Increasing the availability of autism programs ensures that children are identified and supported as early as possible, leading to better long-term outcomes in terms of education, employment, and social integration.
• These programs offer resources, guidance, and a supportive community for parents and caregivers, helping them navigate the challenges associated with raising a child with autism.
• By providing individuals with autism the support they need to reach their full potential, they are more likely to become independent, productive members of society, reducing reliance on social services and increasing their contributions to the workforce.

Conclusion

So, please sign this petition to urge policymakers to prioritize educational resources for autistic students. After all, Jesse Jackson, former US senator, said "When everyone is included, everyone wins."

Let's win this fight together, starting with your signature!