Blog #8

 Blog post #8

Eliminating Ableism in Education

Thomas Hehir

Reflection

Thomas Hehir's vision of eliminating ableism in education calls for a transforming shift in our approach to teaching and learning. He talks about  the value of diversity and advocates for an educational system that makes sure every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential, regardless of their abilities or disabilities. Take away the barriers created by ableism, so we can pave a better, more equitable educational system.

Reading this piece makes me think about the video we watched in class about ableism. It makes me think about parents missing work to stay with their kids and making sure they are getting the same opportunities as their classmates. It makes a connection to heirs and how he talks about collaboration between families, educators, and specialists that are there to help during class. How it is essential to address the unique needs of each student. He talks about working together and that's all the parents want, to work together to provide the best for their children. 

It makes me think about the Support and Resources disability people need. The importance of providing good quality resources. Also how some teachers need the training and support to effectively work with students with disabilities. From the video we saw in class there were some teachers and some staff that didn't know how to help students with disabilities or couldn't help the parents who were trying to advocate for their children. It makes me feel like there needs to be more educational systems that values and respects all students and staff. There needs to be changes in education that create a culture of belonging that includes everybody with fairness. In the video we watched I saw a student who was disabled working with nondisabled students, how the specialist was helping him communicate and ask a question so he is more involved with the class and the work. Basically an educational environment where students with disabilities can learn side by side with their non-disabled peers. Benefits students with disabilities but also builds a sense of belonging and happiness amongst all students.