On Wednesday, April 3, Portage Exchangite Heather Rudd addressed the members of the club on a topic close to her heart: helping parents get the services they need for their special needs children in the public school setting.
She provided a handout with definitions and explanations of various disabilities and the types of accommodations that can help those children. It had a page of Advocacy Groups and Services for parents who need help in negotiating this sometimes confusing path. Groups like InSource (www.insource.org) and IPAS (http://www.in.gov/ipas/) offer assistance in navigating the 504 and IEP processes. They can serve as advocates for both the child and the family.
Rudd said, “We want to make families in Porter County and the surrounding areas aware of programs available in the schools, therapists that can assist in behavior modification, and support/ advocacy groups that are available."
“When people hear the words ‘Special Needs,’ they think it's going to cost more money or strain the limited resources available in schools. When the administrations in Porter County utilize teaching methods and disciplinary methods that kids with Special Needs relate to as well as the normal children, no additional costs are involved.”
Rudd suggested that long-term problems far outweigh any immediate expenses. “Not taking care of a child with Special Needs can lead to drug or alcohol abuse and smoking before the age of 17. We all know the costs associated with this destructive behavior. If we spend some money in elementary and middle school and help them experience academic success, we can boost these kids' egos, which helps them avoid depression and keeps them on the path of being functioning members of society. The alternative is much more costly!”
Parents wishing to share their experiences or get more information on this topic may e-mail Rudd at halbri01@hotmail.com with a brief description of their needs.