Parent advocate urges stronger ESE advisory committee, secures partners for autism drowning-prevention training

Sergio Cruz, a parent advocate for individuals with disabilities, urged the Lee County School Board on Jan. 7 to strengthen the district's ESE (Exceptional Student Education) advisory committee and described a community initiative to prevent drownings involving children with autism.

Cruz said the ESE advisory committee currently meets quarterly and functions more as a "teach and take" forum rather than an equitable stakeholder body with regular public engagement. "I would really like that now that we have a couple of new faces that maybe somebody could... move that committee to be more engaging and equitable," Cruz said.

Cruz also reported progress on an initiative to provide free CPR and first-aid training for families of children with autism and to offer specialized swim instruction. He said the district has secured support from the Fort Myers Fire Department and is working with other departments across the district and county. "We have been able to secure with the Fort Myers Fire Department... free CPR and first aid training for families of children with autism," Cruz said, adding that he had partnered with a swim instructor who specializes in the population and invited board members and community members to collaborate.

Board Member Ms. Langford Fleming acknowledged Cruz's comments and said the district will continue conversations about autism-related safety and supports, noting that such conversations may continue "behind the scenes" as well as in public fora. Several board members praised public commenters and encouraged continued engagement.

Cruz's remarks came during the public comment period; the board and superintendent said they welcome feedback and will continue to engage with community members and advisory groups on special-education issues.