Protect non-verbal children in schools

23

Let’s get to 25 signatures!
Petitions with 1,000+ supporters are 5x more likely to win!

The Issue

My name is Jamie Coldwell, and I am the mother of a beautiful autistic child who is non-verbal. Over the past 2 years, my daughter became a victim of the public school system, coming home week after week with unexplained physical injuries. It broke my heart to see those marks and bruises, and the sense of helplessness grew every time the school turned a blind eye. Despite my desperate pleas for answers, the teachers, administration, and higher-ups refused to properly investigate these incidents, leaving me no choice but to withdraw her from school to keep her safe. No child should suffer in silence, yet this is the harsh reality for many non-verbal children. Without a voice, they are defenseless and reliant on the adults around them to advocate for their protection and well-being. Tragically, the current system is failing these vulnerable kids. It is failing to ensure their safety, and it is failing to hold accountable those responsible for neglecting their duty of care. This is not just about my daughter anymore. As a mother of an autistic child, I know the daily challenges and the courage it takes to be their voice. I refuse to stand by and let other special needs families endure the same helplessness and heartbreak. We must demand change for every non-verbal child who cannot speak for themselves. I am calling on local education authorities, school boards, and policymakers to implement stronger protective measures for non-verbal and special needs children in schools. This includes mandatory training for school staff on how to communicate and care for children with special needs, and a transparent system for reporting and investigating injuries and incidents. We need to create a safe and inclusive environment where all children, regardless of their abilities, can thrive and learn without fear. This includes regular monitoring and audits of school practices regarding special needs care, ensuring accountability and transparency. I urge every parent, caregiver, and concerned citizen to join me in demanding justice and safety for our children. They deserve a voice, and together, we can be that voice. Please sign this petition to protect our most vulnerable children and ensure they receive the safe and nurturing education they deserve.

Supporter Voices

Petition Updates