Santa Catarina officials debate school inclusion for autism

In Santa Catarina, Brazil, legislative and educational discussions are focusing on improving school inclusion for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). In Guaramirim, a proposal has been submitted to the Municipal Chamber to establish priority criteria for children with ASD and other disabilities when applying for vacancies in Municipal Early Childhood Education Centers (CMEIs) and daycare centers. This measure aims to provide families with greater predictability and clarity regarding the enrollment process.

In Florianópolis, the State Seminar on Autism brought together specialists, educators, and families to address challenges in school inclusion and professional training. Data from the Catarinense Foundation for Special Education (FCEE) indicates that approximately 91,600 people in Santa Catarina have an ASD diagnosis, representing 1.2% of the state's population. Key challenges identified during the seminar include the need to expand services and reduce waiting lists, with significant numbers of children currently awaiting care in municipalities such as Balneário Camboriú and Itajaí.