As someone who deeply believes in the integral role of education in shaping our future, it is heartbreaking to witness the maltreatments and abuse that many special education students endure. These experiences regularly go overlooked and underreported; it is our mission to bring them into the light.

- Unheard & Unseen: Vulnerable Voices. 

There are numerous instances where the system has failed special education students - either through a lack of sufficient support or through inadequately equipped environments. We must change this sad reality. We propose not only to provide more alternatives to special education schools but also to incorporate disability awareness and inclusivity in public school education. By doing this, we will foster a better, more supportive environment for these students.

Unjust treatment of special education students is not only a disservice to these children but also an impediment to their future. Every child has the right to safety, security, and adequate learning resources, regardless of their disabilities. To develop and encourage them towards a brighter future, we must ensure they are treated with the dignity, kindness, and respect, and are able to learn and thrive in a positive environment. 

 A report released by the GAO is the fact that, nationwide, these disabled children are being harshly disciplined so that there have even been some deaths. For example, one child was held down by the teacher, finally died of suffocation. Other children are handcuffed, placed in restraints, exiled to time out rooms for hours at a time and ridiculed by their adult supervisors.

State data, on paper, show that students with disabilities get reported to child protective services by educators at roughly the same rate as their peers. They make up 21% of the total enrollment and 22% of educators’ calls to the child abuse hotline. We owe it to these students - and the ones to come - to ensure their education is taken as seriously as any other.

This is not just a personal battle but a national concern. I share this petition on behalf of those whose voices have been marginalized and their pain overlooked. We call on you to stand with us in advocating for the rights of special education students. Sign the petition today for a comprehensive and inclusive tomorrow.