Senator Aaron Bean (R-Fernandina Beach) and Representative Jason Fischer (R-Jacksonville) have filed legislation to appropriate $250,000 to Jacksonville School for Autism (JSA). This appropriation will allow JSA to expand their Strategies and Techniques for Effective Practice (STEP) Program. The STEP Program provides vocational students and young adults with the skills necessary to be independent and successful in both their communities and places of employment.
“Jacksonville School for Autism has impacted numerous lives since its founding and has provided its students with the support they need to become independent, productive members of society,” said Senator Bean. “This appropriation will allow Jacksonville School for Autism to expand and help more students realize that they are truly capable of anything.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirms 1 in 42 boys have an autism diagnosis. JSA is dedicated to helping children with autism and their families by tapping into all available resources to provide “outside of the desk” thinking. With a focus on whole child development and individualized programs that encourage both family and community involvement, JSA is able to nurture each child to reach his or her full potential.
“Autism touches the lives of many Floridians, and it is our responsibility as lawmakers to ensure they have the support they need to reach their full potential,” said Representative Fischer. “This funding request will provide increased vocational training for JSA students, helping them learn essential skills that will prepare them for employment.”
For more information about Jacksonville School for Autism, please visit jsakids.org.
For more information about HB 3967, click here.