Special needs children can be a challenge for the education system. Their needs are specific and unique, but sadly it appears that not all teachers are up to the task of handling kids who need special attention.
On May 27, a story broke about a little boy who was literally voted out of his kindergarten class. According to http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,358956,00.html, 5-year-old Alex Barton became the bullseye in his kindergarten class when his teacher singled him out and asked each child to tell her what they did not like about Alex and whether or not he deserved to stay in the class.
After a vote Alex was voted out of the classroom by a vote of 14-2. Taking a note out of survivor the teacher exiled the child from the kindergarten class. No criminal charges have been filled but the damage to Alex and his family is obvious in interviews they have conducted. According to the same article Alex has repeated “I’m not special” since the incident occurred. Alex is currently in the process of being diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome.
The teachers behavior was unforgivable and disgusting. Since news of the story broke great outcry in parenting communities has ensued. Perhaps one can look it from a different perspective. While this teachers actions are despicable one must wonder if teachers are being properly prepared for dealing with kids who are not “average”.
With the recent rise in Asperger Syndrome diagnosis there is a real issue with teachers learning to deal with the kids who can not be expected to behave like your average five year old. The general population and the education system must begin to understand that teachers are people and they may need special training to ensure that all children are treated equally.
According to http://www.udel.edu/bkirby/asperger/teachers_guide.html., a Web site dedicated to AS support, suggests that teacher’s need to understand that an AS child will not respond in the same manner that a normal child does and thus expectations and techniques must be adjusted to help create an environment conducive to learning for everyone.
Children with AS tend to get over stimulated and thus need a quiet place were they can relax and gain some solace before rejoining the group. Additionally AS children may have meltdowns that can not be controlled and thus should be removed to a quiet spot were they can cool off. Discussions during meltdowns normally do not work and thus later discussions are probably best.
The Final note at O.A.S.I.S. “At times, some of my child’s behaviors may be aggravating and annoying to you and to members of his class. Please know that this is normal and expected. Try not to let the difficult days color the fact that YOU are a wonderful teacher with a challenging situation and that nothing works all of the time (and some things don’t even work most of the time). You will also be treated to a new and very unique view of the world that will entertain and fascinate you at times. Please feel free to share with us whatever you would like. We have heard it before. It will not shock us or make us think poorly of you.”
Teachers and parents must work together to ensure that no other child is treated the way young Alex was. The damage done to the boys psyche and self esteem will likely be apparent for sometime. Alex’s needs are special and different than the average student but his differences were highlighted as a reason for his seclusion rather than accepted and dealt with appropriately.
Sources:
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,358956,00.html
http://www.udel.edu/bkirby/asperger/teachers_guide.html
