How has COVID-19 affected students with learning differences?
In a time of heightened anxieties where many students are struggling with their mental health, students with special needs and their parents have remained one of the most affected groups throughout the pandemic. But over the past two years, while resource scarcity, staff shortages, and remote learning have become the norm, adolescents and children in programs, many of which were already underfunded, have found themselves struggling to stay afloat, acting out in class, and struggling with their mental health.
The 21st was joined by special education teachers, a school superintendent, and the parent of a child with special needs.
GUESTS:
Patti Booth Hodges
Seventh Grade Special Education Teacher, Urbana Middle School
Victoria Valentine
Special Education Teacher, West Leyden High School in Northlake | 2022 “Special Education Teacher of the Year” (Illinois State Board of Education)
Scott Woods
Rantoul City Schools 137 Superintendent
Christina Berry
Parent of a child with special needs | First-grade teacher, Cicero School District 99
“I heard from parents of school-age children, many of whom felt that there was a delay in getting their child the appropriate diagnosis and supports,” writes @JessGrose. https://t.co/asO9aNFV61
— New York Times Opinion (@nytopinion) March 16, 2022
Prepared for web by Owen Henderson
Help shape our coverage on The 21st by joining our texting group and answering weekly questions. To join, text “TALK” to 217-803-0730 or sign up with your phone number below: