State Representative Pauline Wendzel has introduced legislation designed to help ensure students receiving behavioral therapy don’t miss out on time in the classroom.
Wendzel tells us she testified before a committee last week about House Bill 5044, which would require school districts to adopt a policy allowing specialists to help kids with autism without making them lose learning time.
“This is something that we’re very behind on in Michigan that Indiana has been doing for 10 years, and it’s proven it works very well,” Wendzel said. “It’s putting ABA specialists, so those that help those with autism and behavioral disabilities, in the classroom so that kids don’t have to come out of the classroom.”
Wendzel was approached by the Logan Center in Benton Harbor about the idea. She says the center’s Kristin Wier joined her for testimony.
“We’ve heard a lot of testimony that’s really, really heartbreaking of what’s happening to students. They’re getting put in rooms of isolation and it’s really not great what’s happening around the state.”
Wendzel says the bill makes sure students can get the support they need while staying in the classroom, reducing disruptions and keeping every child on track.
More than 80 individuals, advocates, and autism service providers have submitted cards in support of the bill. The House Committee on Education and Workforce is expected to take more testimony on the legislation in the coming weeks.
