By State Senator Florence Shapiro
As Autism Awareness Month kicks off today it begins a time for serious reflection on the challenges that face parents and children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). The Senate Education Committee was charged to explore the feasibility of charter schools focused on special needs students specifically those with Autism.
It is the mission of the Education Committee and the mandate of this State to offer an excellent education to every child including students with learning differences. A charter school for students with Autism will allow specialized staff an innovative curriculum and focused interventions to come together in a new way.
For children with Autism Spectrum Disorders things we take for granted such as communication and social skills can be a challenge requiring courage to overcome. For families just knowing where and how to begin can be overwhelming. National Autism Awareness Month recognizes the providers that serve the families that support and the children that live with Autism.
However the aim of this month is so much more than awareness. Today we honor the lives of those with Autism and commit to going beyond awareness to advocate for change and a better life.
Eleven of every 1000 children have ASD and though there is no single known cause or cure autism is treatable. Studies show that an early diagnosis and intervention can lead to significantly improved outcomes. With services and supports that match their needs people with Autism can live full and healthy lives.
I want to change this awareness month into action month so that we walk into the next legislative session with policy recommendations and next steps that open doors for every child in this State to access an excellent education with quality teachers and leaders. We want to break ground and lead the nation in thought and practice with the way we serve every student. We want to connect providers and families so that parents and children have choices when making decisions about school and treatments. Join us.
Since 1993 Senator Florence Shapiro has represented District 8 consisting of Collin and Dallas Counties. For the past seven years she has chaired the Senate Committee on Education. She also serves on the Senate Committees on Finance Transportation and Homeland Security and Administration.
