May 4th, 2022, New York State Assemblymember Chris Burdick brought Bill A8540 to the assembly floor for a vote. The assembly voted UNANIMOUSLY to require that all schools notify parents the same day a restraint is used on their child. The bill now goes to the Senate.
For the past year, since we first learned about a child at JJMS who was restrained 33 times over the course of two months before the parents were notified, Alexandra Stack has led the charge to change NY State law to ensure timely notification for all parents. She's worked closely with Burdick's office, helping them understand the importance, introducing them to experts, etc.
This is a victory for ALL STUDENTS in New York State – speaking and non-speaking. Just because a child can speak, doesn't mean they will tell parents or trusted adults if they are restrained at school. Often, they're embarrassed, scared, believe it's their fault or simply don't know it's wrong.
Congratulations, Alexandra Stack – your strength, determination and leadership has created real change!
Mission
We are a group of concerned parents (and friends) of children receiving special education services in the KLSD. We are united in our goal of making the district a better place for our kids. This group has decided to advocate for our children by appealing to the BOE, supporting awareness and positive change, lobbying local politicians, and allying with similar advocacy groups.
Goal # 1
End to restraints and seclusion in our schools
Goal # 2
Cameras in self-contained classrooms where students are non/limited verbal
Goal # 3
Autism-specific training for staff
Goal # 4
Accountability and Transparency (including an immediate independent third-party review of two recent events)
Goal # 5
Disability representation at the OSS level
Questions?
Contact klsdspecialedadvocacy@gmail.com to get more information on the project