IL HR0043

Urges the State Board of Education to encourage establishment of peer buddy programs in all Illinois school districts pairing students with autism spectrum disorder with appropriate student partners.

Programs should serve elementary, middle, and high school students with autism spectrum disorder and include training for participating students and staff.

Directs the State Board of Education to consult with the Executive Director of the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities and autism advocacy organizations when developing the peer buddy initiative.

Recognizes that peer buddy programs can alleviate social isolation and promote academic and social inclusion for students with autism while also providing positive benefits to students without disabilities.

Requires delivery of the resolution to the State Board of Education, Autism Society of Illinois, Giant Steps, Little Friends Center for Autism-Naperville, and the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities.