My son graduated from Pre Kindergarten in 2018. I have seen several graduation celebrations. Graduation is a bitter sweet moment. On one hand, you feel ecstatic because you accomplished the ending of something monumental. And, on the other hand, you are closing the door to a chapter. After graduation comes anxiety and fear.
I remember my pre-school graduation. The fine details are sketchy, but I remember wearing white and trying to keep on a graduation hat. We were given a scroll with a diploma. I went to a pre-school that dedicated itself to only children with disabilities. Several children had mental challenges too. Most of day revolved around therapies to help us improve.
After pre-school, I attended an elementary school with three special needs classrooms. Inclusion wasn’t even considered in the early eighties. Children with disabilities were fortunate to be able in a public school instead of a segregated school. Times definitely changed. Our class couldn’t eat lunch with the other students since the school feared we would upset them. Now everyone is more together.
Graduation Worries For Me
Throughout my education journey, I had accomplishments like several students who have disabilities. From the first time I became included to being in a “regular” class without an attendant to being able to attend my home district. I graduated with my class and received a standing ovation (even though I felt it was because of my cerebral palsy.)
Before I became a substitute teacher, I wanted to go back in time, I’d choose a different major in college like accounting or journalism. I majored in special education. I felt determined to be a special education teacher, and no one could stop me from achieving this dream. Although I’m happy that I didn’t sway from my decision, I wonder how much easier other jobs would be. Why? I’d pick a different major because I found that with the extent of my cerebral palsy getting a job teaching used to be impossible. I really want to have employment so I feel that if I chose a different major, I would have been more successful in a career. Now I’m very pleased I stuck with teaching!
If you have a disability such as cerebral palsy, thinking and planning about the future is imperative. Unfortunately, several services that you once had freely are no longer free. You have to research services and be a self advocate to obtain the services to meet your specific needs. When choosing a career paths, take risks but be educated about employment and chances of employment. Stay as physically active and healthy as you can and be proactive in maintaining your health.
No one knows your disability or needs as much as you. Graduation is a great time, but it leads you to the future. Make sure you’re making intelligent and self advocacy choices that will last you your lifetime.
