My son, who is autistic, often tries to elope during school hours. It's a constant worry for me, and I know many other parents face the same concern. Children with disabilities, particularly those on the autism spectrum, can have strong impulses to run or wander away, putting them in potentially dangerous situations. Our schools need to be safe havens for all students, and for children like my son, this means ensuring they cannot easily leave the school grounds without supervision.

Incident reports of children eloping from school playgrounds are not as rare as one might hope. Statistics show that nearly half of children on the autism spectrum attempt to elope, and according to a study conducted by the National Autism Association, more than 30% of autism elopement cases result in harm or danger. This data underscores the urgency for implementing additional safety measures that can prevent such incidents.

Installing secure gates on playground fences at schools is a simple, cost-effective solution. These gates will reduce the risk of children eloping by ensuring there are controlled entry and exit points, which can only be operated by school staff. Additionally, this adjustment can actually benefit all students, contributing to a safer environment where children can play and learn without additional concern over their personal safety.

While school districts may have various safety protocols in place, adding gated entry points addresses a specific need that is often overlooked. Not only will this infrastructure change provide peace of mind for parents of children with disabilities, but it will also ensure that school staff can focus on education, knowing that the children are safe within the school boundaries.

This petition aims to urge local education authorities to take this step toward inclusivity and safety for all children. Installing secure gates on playground fences is a proactive measure that reflects our commitment to providing equal protection and care for every student, regardless of their abilities.

I ask for your support in bringing this change to schools in our community. By signing this petition, you are helping to create a safer learning environment for children like my son, ensuring they receive the protection and independence they deserve. Please join me in advocating for this important safety upgrade.