The media reports emphasize the doom and gloom. We see the terrorist attacks, human trafficking, economic woes, failing schools, and our young men and women shot dead in the streets. What we don't see is the peaceful neighborhoods where families of different religious and ethnic backgrounds live in peace. We don't see the parents juggling work and childcare schedules to go to college. And we don't see the children at the kitchen table doing homework while the parents monitor their progress. It's time to dream again. To not only dream of a better world for our children and grandchildren but to do whatever it takes to help them to reach their full potential.
Last Saturday I was honored to be one of the speakers at the Sate of Black America Address for Central Virginia. There were several excellent speakers talking about the needs of our communities. And though there are many needs, the theme I heard resounding over and over is one of educating our people. The focus of my discussion was primarily special education, however, many of the points were applicable to any student in a public school. Our children are our future. We need to know and understand what is happening with our children in school. If you are a parent, grandparent, or simply a concerned citizen please review my summary points. And feel free to contact me to discuss any questions you may have about special education.
Summary Points from the State of the Black Child Address
- We need to understand the special education labels and services received.
- Fully participate in all aspects of special education decisions.
- Ask about programs of study, SOLs, and other tests.
- Ask about diploma types and what they mean for post-secondary education.
- Learn about your rights as a parent or guardian of a child with or without a disability.
- Speak up and ask questions about what your child is learning in school.
- Make sure that your child is prepared to succeed in school.
- Make sure that your child is taking rigorous classes that will prepare him or her for college or a vocational school.