Thoughts on Autistic Students Not Graduating

An autistic student was denied graduation because he didn't pass his math test, and though there are waivers he applied for, he did not recieve them. Such diplomas are not recognized through certain states such as Individualized Education Programs (IEP), even though a special ed student goes through the courses and takes testing. Because they have a one-on-one aide or a little more help, they are not recognized as a high school graduate.

This makes it hard for them to achieve any higher education in the future and though there are some things such as hairdressing, dog grooming, and culinary arts school that will take you with out a diploma, most colleges want you to get a regular high school diploma or a GED.

Most kids with special needs need to go to work, they need routine, structure and a place other then home. Not all special needs kids get IEPs, it depends on the school district and how the parents advocate for the child starting high school.

The Department of Education is trying to change how IEPs are viewed and will be changing that within the coming years, but for now we must pray and hope our kids will have a future like all other kids.