Every student can learn, just not on the same day, or the same way. -- George Evans
The city of Baton Rouge is a thriving metropolis with ample educational opportunities. Currently, East Baton Rouge Parish boasts 54 elementary schools, 14 middle schools, and 16 high schools in the public school system. The private schools contribute to that number with 53 elementary to middle schools and 23 private high schools. Baton Rouge is also the home to the Flagship University of Louisiana, Louisiana State University and other universities such as Southern University and the Baton Rouge Community College. This wealth of educational access however is lacking in its ability to teach students with varying educational or physical abilities.
Currently, the only option for students with learning or physical exceptionalities is the public school system or some very small and uncertain specialty schools. The New Orleans area is the nearest district with diverse special needs educational opportunities. As the capital of the state of Louisiana and a city with great wealth of education, Baton Rouge should be a pioneer for the education of all different learning abilities. Often, these students are overlooked because of their disabilities and rarely seen or praised for their unique abilities. Teachers are usually under qualified to work with these students or simply do not have the resources needed to adequately teach according to their specific needs.
During high school, I worked with St, Michael’s Special School in New Orleans, a school for intellectually challenged students and adults. In working with these students, I learned just how much they can do and the power education has on their lives. An education for these students means the opportunity to excel at their own pace, a chance to make friends, and a way for them to learn the life and vocational skills they need to be active, healthy, and productive members of their society. Society can no longer “treat” their disability, but rather needs to embrace their abilities and the positive impact they can have on society as a whole.
Every student, despite their learning style or physical limitations, should have access to some level of education in order to better themselves and become active members of their community. It is only in the education of our community members that the community itself grows. The No Child Left behind Act claims inclusion is the only answer for students with disabilities. However, parents and educators are quickly realizing that No Child Left Behind often means inadequate attention, resources, and care for their student. This is why there needs to be another schooling option for parents who do not wish for their students to participate in a traditional public school inclusion program.
My senior project will focus on creating a new learning environment for students with special needs that caters to their unique learning styles. This school will be stimulating academically, supportive physically, and uplifting spiritually. It will be a source of community pride and a place to form new active community members.
