Directs the commissioner of education to provide and present a course of instruction in tourette syndrome

Title of bill

An act to amend the education law, in relation to courses of instruction in tourette syndrome

Purpose

This bill would require a course of instruction in tourette syndrome for use in the elementary schools and secondary schools of the state to increase awareness and understanding of this disorder.

Summary of provisions

This bill would amend the Education Law to add a new section 804-e, Instruction in Tourette Syndrome. The Commissioner of Education would be required to provide and present a course of instruction in Tourette Syndrome for both the elementary and secondary schools of the state. The bill also requires that such instruction shall be given within every public, private and parochial elementary and secondary school in the state.

Justification

Tourette Syndrome is an inherited, neurological disorder characterized by repeated and involuntary body movements (tics) and vocal sounds. Involuntary symptoms can include eye blinking, repeated throat clearing or sniffing, arm thrusting, kicking movements, shoulder shrugging or jumping.

According to the Tourette Syndrome Association, these and other symptoms typically appear before the age of 18 and the condition occurs in all ethnic groups with males affected 3 to 4 times more often than females. Although the symptoms of TS vary from person to person and range from very mild to severe, the majority of cases fall into the mild category. Associated conditions can include attentional problems, impulsiveness and learning disabilities.

Children with TS frequently do not receive special education services because of misunderstanding about the nature of their symptoms. Educators frequently see mild cases of TS as behavioral or conduct disorder which may result in the inappropriate placement of these children. For example, a child may be considered emotionally or behaviorally disturbed rather than being recognized as a child with

TS. Increasing awareness for this disorder will help in addressing behavioral issues and help to integrate children with TS within our classrooms.

Legislative history

2004 Education Committee (S.7007/A.111O) 2005-2006 Education Committee (S.1129-A/A.1070-A) 2007-2008: Referred to Education (S.1530/A.4205)

Fiscal implications

Minimal.

Effective date

This act shall take effect on the first day of August next succeeding the date on which it shall become law; provided, however, that any rules or regulations necessary for the timely implementation of this act on its effective date shall be promulgated on or before such date.