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Meeting Public Comments

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SF 343
A bill for an act relating to excused absences for certain autism-related health care activities for students of a school district.
Agenda
Subcommittee members: Westrich-CH, Gruenhagen, Trone Garriott
Date: Monday, February 27, 2023
Time: 1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
Location: Room G15
Comments Submitted:
The purpose of comments is to provide information to members of the subcommittee.
Names and comments are public records. Remaining information is considered a confidential record.

02-27-2023
Allie Lucas []
Good morning. I was not able to attend today's meeting. I do want to express how important it is that are children's needs are met in all aspects which includes ABA services and educational to help our children be successful independently in school, community, and as they grow older into young adults. I want to express my concern that our children should be able to be in ABA without being unexcused for school as this is part of their needs as much as education during the day of learning. It is important to understand their needs of life skills are much as important as it is for education. We as parents have to advocate for our children as our kids are unable to verbalize their needs. The school should not have the opportunity to pick and choose what is considered unexcused absences when they know where kids are at. We should have the right to make the choices that fit the needs of our children as best fits for their needs to be successful. I was never told my daughter would be unexcused for being in ABA until she was approved, and this was done by email not by phone. How I was approached was inappropriate and I gave the school a lot of information that I was proceeding with this process weeks an advance as this was the best option for my daughter. I am also being pushed to do a dual enrollment and they are advising since my daughter is now an ABA, she won't be able to be in her homeroom. My child should not be punished for being an ABA. This should not matter as they need to follow the IEP in place, and follow through even my daughter is missing less than 10 hours a week. As parents we have to take a stand, and something needs to change. Thank you!