The issue is that Atlanta Public Schools and Fulton County Schools place restrictions on allowing Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) to accompany students with autism during the school day, even when this support is medically and educationally necessary. As a result, students are denied consistent, individualized behavioral support that allows them to safely access instruction and remain in the least restrictive environment. While paraprofessionals play an important role as teacher aides who support the classroom as a whole, they are not trained to implement individualized behavior intervention plans or provide the one-on-one, data-driven support some students on the autism spectrum require. This gap in support limits students’ ability to make meaningful educational progress and places unnecessary strain on families and educators.

Children on the autism spectrum deserve equitable access to education in environments where they can learn safely, effectively, and with dignity.

Many students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) rely on the support of Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs), supervised by Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), to access their education. These supports are often outlined in medical recommendations, behavior intervention plans, and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

Currently, families in Atlanta Public Schools and Fulton County Schools face barriers that prevent RBTs from accompanying students during the school day. As a result, students experience:

• Increased behavioral challenges
• Missed instructional time
• Safety concerns
• Higher rates of exclusionary discipline
• Reduced access to their least restrictive environment

RBTs are trained professionals who:
• Support communication and social skills
• Reduce dangerous or disruptive behaviors
• Promote independence and skill acquisition
• Collaborate with teachers and school staff

Denying access to RBT support places an unfair burden on students, families, and educators and may conflict with the intent of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

We respectfully request that Atlanta Public Schools and Fulton County Schools:

Establish clear policies allowing RBTs to accompany students when medically and educationally appropriate
Collaborate with families, ABA providers, and BCBAs to ensure continuity of care
Remove unnecessary barriers that prevent students with autism from accessing meaningful education
Every child deserves the support they need to succeed. Inclusion should mean access—not exclusion.

We urge APS and Fulton County Schools to act now.