We live in a culture that rolls out the red carpet for celebrities. We (me included) just love watching people that have starred in favorite movies, get all dressed up and parade around for us to see (and have opinions on their outfits).
Somehow I have found myself as a spokesperson for including special ed. students in Catholic education. It wasn't anything I set out to do, I just wanted Rojo to have the same opportunities that Woohoo has. It has morphed into meetings and visits around the area (and beyond) "selling" the idea that special ed. students, while not necessarily college bound, are an asset to education, not a liability, and that by serving them it's not just a matter of social justice (which it is, and not enough can be made of this), but that it's a win-win for everyone, when done right.
In some faith-based schools and communities/cities the red carpet is rolled out for different learners and/or those with different physical abilities. Happily, this has been the case and will continue to be the case for Rojo and our friend J. We've been blessed by being in the right place at the right time with the right people that get it, and the right network of friends and connections. Sadly, this is not the case for all our friends, and certainly not all special ed. students seeking a faith-based option.
I am meeting with a woman next week that wants me to answer the question, "If the sky were the limit, what would you want to see faith-based schools have in place for kids with learning and/or physical differences?" I'm starting the list with red carpets in every school.
Photo from http://www.anarpartyrentals.com
4 comments:
You are the perfect person person for this. GO CARRIE!
Whether you set out to do it or not, you've done an amazing job, my friend. It is sad that so many schools (especially as kids get older) eschew the special ed departments. There is one private, faith-based school in our area that charges one set of tuition for kids who don't need special education services and DOUBLE TUITION for those who do, even though they only spend two hours a day with specialists. Ack! They get away with it, though, because the other schools have such poor records when it comes to working with, or even acknowledging how to work with, these kids.
You go, girl!
Carrie...I read your blog and got shivers. You have discovered God's plan for you! Nikki Klutho
This is fantastic. You must know how blessed you are to even have this openness to work with! I have a wonderful Jewish friend here in LA that has been instrumental in including young Jewish children with disabilities into their community. She would be a terrific person for you to talk to -- if you'd like to do so, email me!
Way to go!
Post a Comment