Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara, Chair of the NYS Assembly Sub-Committee on Autism Spectrum Disorders, is urgently calling for a thorough investigation into a disturbing incident reported at Destine Preparatory Charter School. In a proactive move to address this issue, Assemblyman Santabarbara has sent a letter to Dr. Betty Rosa, Commissioner of the Department of Education, and cc'd the letter to Dr. Lester Young, Chancellor of the NYS Board of Regents.

The incident in question revolves around the case of a 7-year-old autistic child attending Destine Preparatory Charter School. The child’s mother expressed grave concerns after her son was dropped off unattended at a bus stop an hour earlier than scheduled. The child, a first-grade student, was supposed to participate in an after-school African drumming and dancing class before returning home on the bus. Instead, he was dropped off a block away from his Mont Pleasant home at 4 p.m. that evening.

Assemblyman Santabarbara states, "My primary concern is the safety and well-being of all students, especially those with special needs. It's crucial that educational institutions prioritize student safety and maintain proper communication with parents. In light of this troubling incident, I am calling for a swift and thorough investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding this matter."

Highlighting the immediate need for a comprehensive investigation, Assemblyman Santabarbara underscores the importance of proper communication and safety protocols within educational institutions. In the letter addressed to Dr. Rosa and cc'd to Dr. Young, he seeks their assistance in ensuring a thorough examination of the incident and a review of the school's safety procedures.

Assemblyman Santabarbara remains committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of students, especially those on the autism spectrum. The goal is to address and rectify any lapses in safety and communication, ensuring that incidents like these are thoroughly investigated and mitigated promptly.