This plea is deeply personal to me; I have an autistic son who wars with the world each day, not because he poses a threat, but because he requires additional support that the current school system fails to offer. Autistic children are not threats; they are simply special individuals whose needs must be met with proper measures.

In Texas, the Threat Assessment is currently a foremost option for handling kids with autism in schools, which often leads to unintentional intimidation and misunderstanding. We are calling for a shift in the approach, one where Texas Threat Assessment becomes the last resort after all possible means of understanding and support have been exhausted. This is not just an emotional issue, but a systemic one indeed.

Research shows that 1 in 54 children are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, yet their unique set of skills are often met with undue adversity instead of garnering comprehensive support. In Texas, the ratio is even higher with 1 in 45 children suffering under the same system designed to aid them. *(Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020)*.

It's time for change. It is time to prioritize the understanding and addressing of special needs before resorting to measures that paint a child as a threat. This not only will help Texas, but also set the standard for other states in dealing with special needs children. Sign this petition today to start the change we desperately need.