In Milwaukee, a 9-year-old girl with autism escaped from her special needs classroom, not once, but twice, sparking concerns about school safety and the protection of children with special needs. Her parents, Yesania Torres and Samuel Santiago, are urging Milwaukee Public Schools to take more decisive action to safeguard children like their daughter.

Escapes Highlight Safety Concerns

Yesamia Torres, a bright and happy child with autism, has a tendency to bolt or wander, a behavior common among individuals on the autism spectrum. Despite promises from school administrators to enhance safety measures after the first incident two years ago, Yesamia managed to elope from her classroom again on March 8, 2024.

Previous Incident and Response

In the initial incident in 2022, Yesamia wandered out of the school building and was found by a concerned citizen. The school apologized to her parents and vowed to improve supervision, promising that an adult would always accompany her in the hallways. However, the recent escape revealed gaps in the school’s safety protocols.

Second Escape Raises Alarms

During the latest incident, Yesamia slipped out of her special education classroom unnoticed while one of the staff members briefly left the room with the door open. Despite efforts to locate her, Yesamia was out of sight before staff could intervene, emphasizing the urgent need for more effective safety measures.

Community Support and Concerns

Yesamia’s parents expressed their dismay and frustration, emphasizing the need for greater protection for all special needs children within the school. Rechelle Chaffee, Executive Director of the Autism Society of Southeastern Wisconsin, stressed that elopement is not deliberate misbehavior but rather a coping mechanism associated with autism.

Understanding Elopement and Prevention Strategies

Elopement, or wandering, is a significant concern for individuals with autism, with nearly half of them engaging in this behavior at some point. Shelley McLaughlin, director of Pathfinders for Autism, highlighted the importance of swift emergency response and awareness of water bodies, as individuals with autism are often drawn to water.

Root Causes and Solutions

Dr. Megan Boyle emphasized the importance of understanding the underlying reasons for elopement through functional behavioral assessments. These assessments inform personalized prevention plans, including visual schedules and boundaries, tailored to the child’s needs and behaviors.

School Responsibilities and Parent Advocacy

While the school is mandated to address the unique needs of special education students through Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), Yesamia’s parents expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of action and assessment following the incidents. They advocate for more proactive measures and support from the school.

Calls for Improved Safety Measures

Parents and advocates are calling for enhanced safety measures in schools, including door alarms and increased supervision, rather than relying solely on medication to manage behaviors associated with autism. They stress the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of all students, especially those with special needs.

Conclusion: Ensuring Safety and Support for Special Needs Students

The incidents involving Yesamia Torres underscore the critical need for schools to implement comprehensive safety measures to protect children with autism and other special needs. With proper understanding, assessment, and proactive interventions, schools can create safer environments that support the well-being and learning of all students.

For parents seeking assistance and resources, organizations like the Autism Society of Southeastern Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction offer support and guidance in navigating Individualized Education Plans and advocating for their children’s safety and education.

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