Requesting The Department Of Education To Implement Sensory Rooms For Children Diagnosed With Autism Spectrum Disorder In All Schools.
Impact
Should HR178 be enacted, it would significantly affect local educational policies by establishing a structured approach to accommodate students with autism spectrum disorder across various school levels. The implementation would occur in a phased manner, prioritizing non-Oahu public elementary schools that lack special education classes, followed by other public elementary, middle, and high schools throughout the state. This initiative is expected to promote better academic participation and success among children with autism in Hawaii's educational system.
Summary
House Resolution 178 (HR178) is a legislative request aimed at the Hawaii Department of Education to implement sensory rooms in all public schools for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. The resolution emphasizes the importance of sensory rooms as therapeutic spaces that provide customized sensory input, which can aid children, particularly those with autism, in calming themselves and enhancing their focus. Given the rising number of students diagnosed with autism in Hawaii, estimated at 2,088 as of December 2019, the resolution asserts that such implementations are critical for improving educational environments for these children.
Contention
While HR178 has the potential to create a more inclusive educational atmosphere, there may be concerns regarding the funding and resources needed to develop and maintain sensory rooms in all public schools. Stakeholders may debate the logistics of such implementation, including the cost of necessary equipment and the training of staff to effectively utilize these spaces. Additionally, discussions around the prioritization of schools may arise, as there may be differing opinions on which schools should receive sensory rooms first, especially in rural areas versus urban ones.
Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Study To Examine The Implementation And Standards Of Various Sexual Health Education Policies Within The Department Of Education.
Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Study To Examine The Implementation And Standards Of Various Sexual Health Education Policies Within The Department Of Education.
Requesting The Legislative Reference Bureau To Conduct A Study To Determine The Implementation And Standards Of Various Sexual Health Education Policies Within The Department Of Education.