For this equity project I'm currently working on, I volunteered to work with the Special Ed students at Washington High School. I've actually been volunteering for quite a long time now. I have Family Living with Mrs. Bauer, so we would go to their classroom or they would go to ours every Thursdays. On my very first day of volunteering, I've learned so much about these kids. I've got to know a few staffs that works there, and they all look so interested in working with the kids. That is one thing that's important to these students.
You'll never feel unwelcome walking into their classroom. They're very social to you once you walk in! They start to introduce you their names, shakes your hand, and gives you hugs. I was asking Allison about her day, she politely said, "My day was great! How was yours"? Ms. Danielle, one of the staffs, said, "Very polite of you that you asked back, Allison." The students are very well-mannered. I was working with Cosmo one time, and she started to cry out of nowhere because of her current bruise on her knee. I've noticed how the staffs there really know how to tolerate the students. Few minutes later, Cosmo said, "I'm fine Mrs. V! I'm happy again!" I've always thought the students were stuck in their classroom all day. They actually go on field trips every Mondays, to wherever they want! They know how much to spend and how to limit themselves, because their parents taught them how. When they don't have any money, they know that they have to stay in the classroom. Very well-disciplined. They get so excited when they have the opportunity to go out and explore.
I definitely don't regret volunteering at this community. I feel accomplished by making a handful of wonderful students with a smile on their face. Just simply by communicating with them would make their day, and that's what makes my day. I don't understand why some heartless people would treat them differently just because they're 'different' comparing to the rest. They are just like us. I believe those people should take the time to get to know them, because that's what we want from others too, right? I will continue on going to this program, because so far, I have no negative outcomes from my first experienced. Plus, I love communicating with these students!


3 comments:
This blog post is really interesting. I feel as if not enough people pay attention to Special Ed kids. It's such a good idea that you guys volunteered at the Special Ed center! Often times they feel neglect and don't get enough attention that they do. Moreover, after Nancy and I's presentation last semester I'm glad it opened doors for volunteer opportunities and got people interested in helping them out. As I can see from your post, you've bonded with them quite well! Which proves they're sweet, kind people and anyone should take a chance with them. Nancy &I also volunteered in that department but (Level 2) Cause we wanted a change. I'm glad others are starting to realize volunteering isn't a big burden, sometimes all they need is someone to talk to.
That seems like such a fun activity, going with Ms.Bauer's class to visit, that everyone has some exposure what it's like to be a bit different.I agree with you 100% that they're very friendly, they'll never make you feel unwelcome. When you walk in it's really like walking into a community free of hatred, or judgement. Goodluck to you, I hope you have fun with them like I know Nancy & I have!
I think that what you are doing is great! Working with kids with disabilities is no easy thing, but it makes you feel great that you made a difference in their lives just by hanging out with them for a few hours. Im glad you picked this, and keep having fun with them!
I thought this was a very important issue that should definitely be noticed by more people. Since I am working on a similar issue, I can relate my experiences to what you discussed about yours. Special education students have every right to feel involved and included in our school and in the rest of society. Sometimes they are neglected and isolated upon, which is a major issue when trying to reach equity. I appreciate you bringing forward this issue and showing the public about changes that we need to make in order to have everyone feel more equal!
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