Bill > S313

This bill proposes to establish a new discretionary grant program, administered by the department of elementary and secondary education, to provide financial and other assistance to school committees. The program's goal is to help schools improve services and support for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ensuring they are educated in the least restrictive environment, meaning they are educated with non-disabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate. The grants will specifically fund the development of programs and the training of personnel experienced in autism spectrum disorder, with a focus on addressing critical needs such as communication (both verbal and nonverbal), social interaction skills, preventing and responding to bullying, managing resistance to change, addressing repetitive behaviors, implementing positive behavioral interventions, and supporting transitions for youth aged 14-22 into employment, higher education, and independent living, as well as other needs impacting a child's progress in the general curriculum and their social and emotional development.