We, the undersigned, respectfully call for action.

We urge education leaders across the United States to require age-appropriate disability awareness and inclusion education in K–6 schools.

Children with autism and other disabilities deserve school environments where they are understood, respected, included, and protected from bullying.

Too many children experience exclusion or bullying simply because their peers lack understanding of differences. Education has the power to change this.

We are asking schools to teach children:

{ What autism and other disabilities are, in age-appropriate terms}

{ That people learn, communicate, and experience the world in different ways}

{ How to include and respect classmates with disabilities}

{ The impact of bullying and exclusion}

{ The importance of kindness, empathy, and inclusion}

{ That many disabilities are not visible}

{That disability does not diminish a person’s value or potential}

{ How to be allies and actively support inclusion}

We also call for:

1. K–6 curriculum integration

Consistent disability awareness and inclusion education from kindergarten through sixth grade.

2. Teacher training and resources

Appropriate training and support to help educators effectively teach inclusion.

3. Strengthened anti-bullying focus

Clear inclusion of disability-related bullying within prevention policies and programs.

4. Input from lived experience

Curriculum development informed by disabled individuals, families, educators, and subject matter experts.

5. Nationwide adoption

A consistent, equitable approach to disability inclusion education across the United States.

Why This Matters:

No child should be bullied or excluded because of a disability.

Early education about differences fosters empathy, respect, and inclusion. It helps children develop into adults who understand and support one another.

Disability awareness benefits every child.

All children will grow, learn, and work alongside individuals with disabilities. Inclusion must begin early.

Let us teach understanding from the start.

Let us make inclusion a foundational part of education.

Let us ensure every child feels safe, valued, and included at school.

We respectfully ask for your support in bringing disability awareness and inclusion education into K–6 schools nationwide.

SIGN THIS PETITION if you believe every child deserves to be understood, respected, included, and safe at school.

Education fosters understanding. Understanding fosters acceptance. Acceptance fosters inclusion.