The mother of an 18-year-old man with a learning disability is lobbying New York education officials to make changes to its policies, so her son can receive his high school diploma. Her fight is just one of many, illustrating how parents of those with disabilities often have to advocate their children “get the services they require.” Read more
K-12
Report Finds Disabled Children in Russia Face Discrimination
At least 13 million people in Russia are disabled. In a new report, Human Rights Watch delves into problems surrounding educational opportunities for Russia’s children with disabilities. Read more
The Washington Post
High school valedictorian has a 4.0 GPA, is headed to Towson University and is autistic
Montel Medley was the valedictorian of the Class of 2014 at Surrattsville High School in Prince George’s County, Maryland. His speech covered the standard topics of growth, support from great teachers and future plans but also addressed something less common in such remarks– his autism. Medley said having a disability does not have to be a disadvantage, in fact it can be an advantage. In his case, Medley graduated with a 4.0 GPA and accepted an offer to attend Towson University in the fall. Read more.
The State Journal-Register (Springfield, Ill.)
Proposal to allow fees at ISD, ISVI causing a stir
Legislation that could require parents of blind or deaf children to pay additional school fees is causing a stir amongst advocates for those with special needs.
WLTX-TV (Columbia, S.C.)
Student Recognized for Academic Excellence Despite Disability
When someone hears that a child has a disability they may think of down syndrome or being physically disabled. But imagine having a disability that no one can see and others thinking you’re just plain difficult.
KULR-TV (Billings, Mont.)
West grad does not let disability slow him down
West High School graduate Christian Johnson was born with Cerebral Palsy. It’s a condition caused by brain injuries usually within the womb. While the severity varies, Johnson has had limited use of his legs for most of his life.
The Pueblo (Co.) Chieftain
City schools didn’t violate girl’s rights, judge rules
Pueblo City Schools didn’t violate the rights of a special needs student, who at times was unable to control herself, by repeatedly confining her in a restraint device, a judge has ruled.
The Lancaster (Ohio) Eagle-Gazette
Berne Union senior adapts to life, softball with disability
It’s the best sleight-of-hand trick you’ll see on a softball field, and Alanna Sanborn has it down cold.
The Berne Union senior outfielder camps under fly balls, catches them with her left hand, and in one fluid motion tucks her glove under her right arm and comes up throwing with her left. It’s a technique that Sanborn has mastered not because she’s a show-off, but because she’s had to.
The Philadelphia Inquirer
Philly schools insist on CSAP for a disabled boy, instead of the care he needs
When Manuel Gonzalez started kindergarten, his mother, Jasmin, told administrators at Elkin Elementary School in Kensington that he’d been diagnosed with a learning disability while in Head Start.
WIS-TV (Columbia, S.C.)
Midlands school helps students with learning disabilities
There’s a hidden obstacle inside South Carolina schools, and it’s more common than you might think.