May 2025,

In an effort to enhance the safety and well-being of Missouri children, The Uvalde Foundation For Kids, a national nonprofit, has taken a significant step forward.

Based out of Texas, the 501c(3) national student advocacy and violence prevention group (Charity ID #88-3268749), formed in response to the Robb Elementary School shooting in May 2022 in Uvalde, Texas- Is passionately drafting a groundbreaking piece of legislation known as, "Conrad's Law."

This legislation, is named in honor of a bright, autistic child, Conrad Ashcraft, who died at "Poppy's Playhouse," in Missouri, after being allegedly held down by a weighted blanket and subdued by a staff member; when the child refused to nap. 

In response, The proposed law by the foundation would, among other things, require the installation of camera systems in all public & private, licensed daycare facilities across Missouri & increase facility licensing mandates regarding staff member training in the care of neurodivergent and special needs children.

In addition to the requirement of mandated staff training and certification of such in neurodivergent & special needs childcare to maintain licensing, "Conrad's Law," would require daycare facilities to provide proof of such staff licensing.

As the foundation continues to research appropriate measures and adjustments to the final piece of legislation to be proposed, with the further input of CONRADS family and community members & leaders throughout Missouri, amendments will be provided. The foundation seeks to present the final draft to the General Assembly, Fall 2025

The safety of our children is of utmost concern, particularly in environments where they are meant to be nurtured and cared for. By requiring camera systems in daycares, increasing staff training requirements and all the facets of this proposed law - we are providing a substantial level of security and transparency. This move not only allows for increased accountability among staff but also deters potential misconduct and ensures the well-being of children in these care facilities.

Statistics show that in recent years, the safety of children in daycare centers nationwide has become a growing concern for many parents. Cases of negligence or misconduct, though rare, do happen and leave indelible marks on the affected families. By implementing "Conrad's Law," Missouri would be taking a definitive step towards safeguarding the trust parents place in daycare centers & increasing the quality of care to a growing, diverse population of children.

Furthermore, this legislation aligns with preventive measures that have shown effectiveness in educational environments across the nation. Surveillance systems, when used responsibly, serve as critical tools for violence prevention and crisis management, reassuring parents that their children are in safe hands.

And, much as our nations public schools require more and more increased staff training to address their student culture, the same standard must apply to daycare facilities. As such,

We urge the citizens of Missouri to stand in solidarity with The Uvalde Foundation For Kids in advocating for "Conrad's Law." Together, we can push for the necessary legislative changes that protect our children and bring peace of mind to parents statewide.

Join us in supporting this crucial initiative. Sign this petition to make Missouri a benchmark for daycare safety and child care across the country.

Detailed Foundation BLOG update:

https://uvaldefoundation.wixsite.com/theuvaldefoundationf/post/conrads-law-national-student-advocacy-group-drafting-legislation-which-would-require-cameras-in-m

DONATE TO FOUNDATION EFFORTS HERE:

http://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G88KEWBWBVGA8

The Uvalde Foundation For Kids

254 499 8027

www.theuvaldefoundation.com

CrimeOnline Full Story:

https://www.crimeonline.com/2025/05/27/advocy-group-pushed-for-legislation-after-tot-boy-dies-at-daycare-left-on-floor-for-hours/