As a parent of an  autistic and nonverbal son, I am deeply troubled by the alarming number of children who are sexually and physically abused in the news. Much of this abuse goes unnoticed because these children lack the means to express their suffering. This makes it imperative that we, as parents, take proactive steps to ensure their safety and well-being. As their voice, we must create a protective environment that safeguards these vulnerable children from potential harm.

We propose the mandatory installation and use of continuous video and audio surveillance cameras in all public school classrooms and therapy rooms serving autistic and nonverbal students. Such measures are essential to ensure accountability, transparency, and most importantly, the safety of these children.

Unfortunately, without the ability to fully communicate, autistic and nonverbal students are often left defenseless against potential mistreatment or abuse. By installing surveillance cameras, we can deter abusive behavior and identify any potential threats in real-time, thus providing a safer environment for our children.

Statistics show that children with disabilities are three times more likely to be victims of abuse compared to their non-disabled peers. The presence of continuous surveillance can serve as a significant deterrent against abuse, while also providing valuable evidence in situations where misconduct is suspected.

Implementing this measure is not only a step towards protecting vulnerable students but also enhancing trust and peace of mind for parents, educators, and the community as a whole. Schools are meant to be safe havens for learning and growth, and it's time we take concrete steps to ensure they remain so.

Join us in our mission to protect autistic and nonverbal children by supporting this petition for mandatory surveillance. Let’s work together to hold our educational systems accountable and create a safer, more transparent environment for all students. Please sign this petition to make a difference in the lives of countless children.