A little different perspective. In view of IDEA and the struggle we are facing with it right now I wanted to share something. This was compiled by and for students with disabilities:
We have the same needs and desires as all other students—We want to do our best, be respected and supported to feel good about ourselves and be successful in high school and beyond.
When asked, “What is the Number 1 thing you want your teachers to know about you,” teens replied:
I have dreams and hopes for my future
I am willing to learn!
I am smart!
I am a good person!
I will listen to what you have to say and would like you to listen to me
We want…
Help when we ask for it.
Teachers with open minds about our abilities
Respect
More chances to get involved in activities of our choice in school
School to be a more positive and accepting environment for students with disabilities
We want opportunities for…
More choices about what classes we take
To be included in regular classes and activities
Speaking up and being heard
Real life experiences
We worry about…
Peer pressure
Not doing will with our schoolwork
Not being involved or fitting in at school
Not being able to express ourselves fully
Graduating from high school without the knowledge and skills to succeed in higher education or in the workforce
What the future holds
According to the 1998 Harris Poll of Americans with Disabilities…
1 out of 5 adults with disabilities aged 18 and over has not graduated from high school, compared to only 1 out of 10 adults with no disabilities
Fully 1/3 (34%) of adults with disabilities lived in a household with an annual income of less than $15,000 in 1997, compared to only 12% of adults without disabilities.
We need our teachers to…
Listen to us, first of all
Help us become more involved in planning meetings
Help us to plan early for our lives after school by making sure we take the right classes
Help us figure out what accommodations we need so we can do our best work.
We need our teachers to…
Respect and have faith in the choices we make
Challenge us so we can raise our goals and theirs too!
Not give up on us so we won’t give up on ourselves!
at 11:40 AM :: ~#~
