Kelsey is 12 years old and has been diagnosed with PDD. She started her life in a Russian orphanage where I found her at 11 months of age sick, starving and alone. Since being adopted, Kelsey has thrived. She is currently a 5th grade special education student who lives life to the fullest. She is active in dance, gymnastics, swim team and cheer team. She is also an active community volunteer donating more than 300 service hours during 2015. During the past year, she has received a Presidential Volunteer Service Award from the White House, met with the Governor, was named a finalist for two National Youth Activist Awards, received state level awards for academics and community service and raised over $5,000 for a variety of charities.
Unfortunately, despite all of this success, Kelsey has experienced the sad reality that so many individuals with developmental disabilities face. While a student at her local elementary school, she has only been allowed to participate in self-contained special education activities. She was not allowed to be on the honor roll; was not allowed to participate in the science fair; was not allowed to represent the school system at the state Special Olympics Games with her peers from other elementary schools in Georgia; was not allowed to participate in her school's extracurricular activities such as chorus and the dance squad; and was not even initially allowed buy a ticket to attend the 5th grade dance. While we appreciate everything her special education teachers have done for her, we are disappointed in the multiple barriers to inclusion and equal participation in the general school environment Kelsey has faced. As she enters middle school this fall, we will continue to fight for equal access. Kelsey believes that individuals with disabilities can achieve great things in life and make a tremendous positive difference in the lives of others. When she grows up, she wants to be a role model for others and start her own charitable foundation that will support children with special needs. Kelsey's experience reminds us that separate is not equal. Inclusion is essential.
Bonaire, GA
