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Training Disabled Students
Christian Science Monitor
Commentary, October 1, 2002
For more articles on disabilities and special ed visit
www.bridges4kids.org
and
www.educationnews.org.
Many states have made progress in integrating students with
special needs into regular classrooms. They've also helped
them get ready for the world of work by allowing them to stay
in school until they are 21. That can mean on-site job
training, as well as other programs to help parents and
students adapt to work in a larger community.
Yet cash-strapped states, looking for budget cuts, are
considering eliminating such services – one of the most
important programs for children and youth with special needs.
People with disabilities already are significantly unemployed
and underemployed after leaving school. The loss of transition
services stands to increase that problem.
Further, individuals with disabilities often need adult day
programs and other community habilitation services. Without
them, the risk is too great that they'll be left alone,
forfeiting skills gained in a state's educational system.
Without them, too, a parent or caregiver's livelihood can be
profoundly affected.
Society has recognized that it owes such individuals the
benefit of care. And caring individuals should see to it that
they get it.
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