Today, about 50 million Americans are living with at least one disability, and most Americans will experience a disability at some time during the course of their lives (CDC). Some disabilities are easy to see, such as when a person uses a wheelchair or has lost an arm. Other disabilities, like a developmental disability such as autism, may not be as easy to see. Nevertheless, every disability affects a person’s life.

Students learning with a disability can face monumental challenges in the classroom. To establish disability awareness, I sponsored SB 6313 in the 2008 session, recognizing disability history and awareness in our public education system. SB 6313 passed though the Legislature and was signed by Governor Gregoire. It became law on June 12, 2008. According to SB 6313, each October, public schools, colleges, and universities must conduct and promote educational activities that provide instruction, awareness, and understanding of disability history and people with disabilities.

I am hopeful that you can take leadership to help us spread the word to our entire public education system of October’s Disability Awareness Month.  I will be happy to visit your school, classroom, or meet with students to tell my story of Dyslexia which has affected my family. My goal is to create a positive learning environment, and ultimately for each of us to understand the equal value of all people: abled, disabled, and differently abled.

Please contact my office at (360) 786-7600 or mcauliffe.rosemary@leg.wa.gov to arrange a classroom visit or see what you can do to spread the word on disability awareness in your school.

Thank you for your dedicated service.

Sincerely,

Rosemary McAuliffe
State Senator, 1st District