Matt and I were invited to attend a Spirit & Pride assembly at school today. We were so excited to see both of our boys at school and show them how much we and the community are behind them! Dalan has figure it out as well, but when the parents get the invitation it means their child is being honored. Today, Dalan was awarded the "Be Proactive" award. The awards honors someone who has a "can do" attitude, always tries their best at everything they do, follows directions, does the right thing without being asked, chooses their best actions, attitudes and moods, and doesn't blame others for wrong doings. We are so proud of him and are so happy to celebrate his accomplishment. We really wish Jayen could have been there to witness it as well.
For some reason, Jayen and the special education class were not there for the assembly. The para, who will be his one on one, was there to watch her son get an award. I asked why he wasn't there and she mentioned that some of the students in that classroom would not be able to handle it. But why would that disclude Jayen? He can handle it and should handle it. Not only would he be so proud to see his brother get an award, but to see all the positive role models today. He needs these role models. He should look up to them. He should feel the sense of community that this exact event is meant to provide.
We have a meeting set up in a couple of weeks to discuss other topics. I will add this to the list.
I agree that not being included isn't 'Inclusion' at all! It has been a struggle to keep both Grands in Mainstream Classes since they cannot perform at a similar level as a Child without their disabilities, but it has been the only way to ensure they have actual Inclusion and Socialization that will benefit them in the most Positive of ways while they also try to receive an Education. It's not a level playing field for them to be sure, but isolation is so Real for them outside of School that I didn't need for them to feel excluded or set apart, and not in a good way, in the Classroom as well. The Grandson especially, tho' he's been tested at Genius IQ is failing every class, but is very interactive in his extracurricular activities and Shines in Band and Color Guard as well as the Gamers Club and LGBT Club he is a part of... he's finding his 'Tribe' apart from just being defined by a disability he has. Which is great because that doesn't define an entire person and isn't all that they are or can be. Their Abilities and strengths are what will impart Purpose and Destiny in their Life Paths... each individual being valuable in their own unique way. I am sorry your one Son didn't get to Experience the Ceremony and perhaps your input will ensure that it does not happen again? Blessings from the Arizona Desert... Dawn... The Bohemian
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