To the editor:

This is directed to students needing Special Education. I’m sorry. I’m sorry that I didn’t yell. I’m sorry that I didn’t curse. I’m sorry that I didn’t finger-point at the board of education. I’m sorry that I didn’t threaten. I’m sorry that I didn’t cause a scene. Maybe, if I would’ve done what some of the people representing band/orchestra did, the programs, staff, and services that allow you to learn from the general education curriculum might not have been so swiftly cut.

I’m sorry I couldn’t make a difference for you. I know that what many of you want is to be with your friends, in school like any other kids. Eating lunch in the lunchroom, playing at recess on the playground, learning to tell time in the classroom, discovering you are an important part of the group. I know that you want your chance, your turn. I’ve heard you say you want to be a teacher one day, and then a fireman the next. Yes, you should have those same opportunities. I hurt too, when people look at you and don’t see. I just wish that I could make life more accessible for you. But I won’t quit.

They told so many of us parents you’d never talk, you’d never walk, you’d never make a friend, you’d never learn. We will speak when you cannot. We will look ahead when you cannot. We will listen when you cannot. We will explain things again and again if that is what you need. We will help you hold your hands quiet when you do not have the strength. And we will pave the way when your wheels need a road to travel on. No, I guess you have taught me better than that. I am glad that I didn’t yell, or curse, or finger-point, or cause a scene, and I am glad I didn’t threaten. We have learned together that people learn better by good examples and patience.

Christy Ubelaker,

Lawrence