Comments on: Parent praises Valle Verde Elementary’s magnet autism program and teachers

By: Theresa Harrington

Theresa Harrington — Fri, 08 Jun 2012 17:21:59 +0000

Thank you for this additional information about the program at Concord High. However, my story was specifically about the program at Valle Verde — focusing on the experience of one student — and did not mention any middle school program. Therefore, the omission of other programs was not an “error,” since we have limited space.

I’m sorry that I did not have time to visit the middle and high school programs before my story deadline. I will print a portion of your comment in my Sunday blog in the CC Times to help spread the word about your program.

We also welcome letters to the editor that highlight programs of interest to the community.

By: Sandy Harris

Sandy Harris — Fri, 08 Jun 2012 16:12:33 +0000

Hello,
I want to point out an error of ommission regarding your article about the Magnet program for students with autism. The program does not end at middle school. We are very proud of the Magnet program at Concord High School. Last January 8 of our 17 students received awards for Honor Roll. This year one of our students won a county wide award for acheivment in an ROP class, along with a $200 scholarship. Four of our seniors had part-time jobs this year, while still maintaining their grades. Two of our staff were recognized by the behaviorist staff for outstanding work and dedication. For students, and their families, with autism the greatest challenges will be faced after high school. At CHS Magnet program we work diligently to prepare these students for college and jobs by teaching skills they will need for the rest of their life.

I hope you will take the time to publish a correction to this error, so that your readers will have the whole picture.

Sandy Harris, Teacher
Magnet Program at Concord High School

By: Ray

Ray — Fri, 08 Jun 2012 13:58:08 +0000

Hello,

Thank you for posting this article. I am so happy to see Ellen was recognized earlier this year. What an amazing gift to have received a communication from a student from 20+ years ago as well!

My daughter, Taylor, was in Ellen’s classroom several years ago. Taylor is about to enter the 8th grade and is doing really well. She has been in a resource classroom, with inclusion in the neurotypical English/Literature, Art and P.E. though out middle school. Next year Taylor will also be in the 6th grade Algebra classroom, as well as continue in 8th grade English/Literature, Art, and P.E.

Ellen, Wanda and Georgia were so instrumental in Taylor early “awakening”. Their very loving interaction and knowledgable understanding of her needs truly made a huge difference.

We will forever hold them dearly in our hearts.

By: Theresa Harrington

Theresa Harrington — Tue, 05 Jun 2012 20:12:31 +0000

You are very welcome! Thanks for sharing your son’s story as well.

Also, please note that I have added a “June 6 update” to this blog post, which includes another touching story from Ellen Terminello, about one of her former students.

By: Janine Payne Schneir

Janine Payne Schneir — Tue, 05 Jun 2012 19:34:40 +0000

Thank you so much for shining a light on the amazing work of Ellen Terminello and her staff. My son is one of her students. In light of the struggles associated w/raising a child w/autism (difficult transitions, arguing w/insurance companies, dealing with endless red tape to get services from the RCEB, to name a few) I give thanks for Ellen Terminello and her class at Valle Verde every single day. In times of impending budget cuts, it is important to recognize the tremendous impact this class has on the future potential of these students and celebrate something that is truly working!

By: Theresa Harrington

Theresa Harrington — Tue, 05 Jun 2012 02:44:42 +0000

I am live blogging the meeting as an update to the this blog post: http://www.ibabuzz.com/onassignment/2012/06/04/mdusd-board-to-appoint-administrator-approve-budget-consider-continued-use-of-radio-station-and-other-matters/

By: Theresa Harrington

Theresa Harrington — Tue, 05 Jun 2012 02:43:48 +0000

MDEA has endorsed Brian Lawrence and Attilla Gabor in November election.

By: Theresa Harrington

Theresa Harrington — Tue, 05 Jun 2012 00:58:05 +0000

Here is a blog post about tonight’s meeting: http://www.ibabuzz.com/onassignment/2012/06/04/mdusd-board-to-appoint-administrator-approve-budget-consider-continued-use-of-radio-station-and-other-matters/

By: Doctor J

Doctor J — Mon, 04 Jun 2012 23:54:53 +0000

Should be an exciting Board meeting tonight — lots of issues brewing . . . but the $64 question: Which ladder will Sue Brothers be climbing ?

By: Sue Berg

Sue Berg — Mon, 04 Jun 2012 18:31:53 +0000

Teresa, thanks for both your stories today on programs for children with special needs. Special education is an emotional and controversial subject, especially in these days of limited funding. Yet anyone involved with these children–educators and parents–loves seeing them rise above their disability. You’ve reflected that positive spirit in your stories. As the grandmother of a delightful 3-year-old born with Angelman’s Syndrome, I am grateful for the public programs that provide skilled and caring therapists and other support for him and his parents.