LETTERS: Remark offends writer
To the Editor:
It displeases me greatly to have read on our school web site (http://206.53.113.149/~gerryh/gargon.htm) that "Most special needs children could use better parents." I am quoting our Marion School Superintendent, Gerry Henderson.
As a parent with a child whose needs have been deemed "special," I can tell you that I would go to any lengths to see that my child has the best parenting I can learn to give her. I have been to specialists inside and outside of the state for her and with her. I have spent uncountable amounts of money on care for her and training for myself that was not covered by insurance. I have done all of this for one reason only, and that is to ensure that my child has the best quality of life possible.
My days start and end with this child. The school system not only isn't responsible to parent my child, I don't think it is their place to interpret my parenting style on their judgment scale.
I would be interested if any of the school personnel that attended the meeting where this quote originated has lived with the challenges of a child with special needs. And I would be interested to know if this statement reflects the thoughts of the entire Leadership Team.
I wonder if this Leadership Team is aware of the damage done when broad discriminating statements are made.
And one last thing
Pam Meador
Early Childhood
Special Educator
Marion
