[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Society says that the logical step after high school graduation is college. High School juniors and seniors spend countless hours visiting schools so they can choose the best one for them, setting them up for success after graduation. However, for many, college may not be an option for a number of reasons. One of these reasons is special needs.
In most states individuals with disabilities age out of the education system and have no where to go. There are very few programs that will teach them the skills they need to be independent or expand their minds.
As my daughter, Mickie, gets older, I think about whether or not she will be able to go to college. I want her to have the same opportunities as her brothers.
Colleges here in California have federally mandated disability services allowing students who qualify appropriate academic adjustments as necessary and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) certified accessibility. In my research, however, I could not find one Californian school that had a specialized program for individuals with developmental disabilities. We need to have programming in place for all individuals, regardless of ability, to pursue their dreams.
There are a few schools across the country, like Clemson University in Tennessee andUniversity of South Carolina, with specialized programming that allow our children to go to college. These programs incorporate functional academics, independent living, employment, social skills and wellness.
I want Mickie and every child with a developmental disability, to be able to open a college acceptance letter like the boys in the videos below. We, as parents, get to fight for these opportunities for our children. They deserve it. Join me in advocating for our children to have access to a college education. It should be a right, not a privilege.
Blessings,
Mrs. Griess[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]