My daughter has autism as well and she has the best therapist. Her therapist lives by this quote "If a child can't learn the way we teach, maybe we should teach the way they learn." - Ignacio Estrada
It took 21 years for my bother to finally be diagnosed with Aspergers (he was previously diagnosed with ADHD, bipolar, anxiety, and depression) 21 years of waking up at 2 am to him screaming, breaking things, and trying to hurt himself. Isaiah has taught me so much about how to love my sibling. It’s so easy to feel alone because nobody understands. This channel has brought me so much happiness. You guys are AMAZING parents.
Sierra Bailey I hope that his Diagnosis will help him to get the help and support he needs. I have autism and go to a number of therapy’s and it helps alot
the sad thing is, there are two types of parents with children with special needs. Parents who don’t mind the warehousing and will do whatever it takes just to hide their child out of embarrassment and downplay their disability. and parents who want the best for their child and want development for them no matter what it takes. Asa and Priscilla are two of the best parents i’ve ever seen and took abbies educational ability’s to a whole new level.
I just want to say how cute that beginning scene where Abby and Isaiah were playing he is the best brother some brothers would hate playing with there kid sister
True coming from view point of a school victom or myself was accused of being mentally challenged:( no just didn't talk well due to ADHD n ceraibal pulsey ant num of things
District support and teacher training and development as well as accountability needs to happen. Collaborative efforts between speech and OT and Para etc. The entire educational team has to be serious! Same story everywhere in the USA! I’m going to be writing a book too! Especially about the illegal use of restraint.
Hum...I could add alot to these comments, however, everyone has an opinion. Have any of you ever been a teacher? Just wondering where your expert opinions are coming from? Experience? Probably not.
They said she was unable to learn??? That’s messed up. Why would there be a special needs program at schools if they were unable to learn?? Ughhh so frustrating
Warehoused : basically shoved into a room/ corner and labeled as difficult / to hard / vegetive and for all intensive purposes forgotten about or refusal to be taught by staff.
I was warehoused only due to having bad ADHD, PTSD and selective mutism(this was usually nerves related I think coz I'm okay now at talking infact I don't shut up 😅😂) I wasn't even that difficult honestly they just gave up on me way way too quickly 😣 I was put in the learning support base alot of the time where I wasn't even taught anything I was just sitting playing on a computer while being babysat🙄 I wasn't even aggressive just talked alot and was impulsive 🙈 dunno if this makes a difference but i went to a Catholic school and one teacher actually uttered the words "she's possessed by demons" to MY PARENTS 😬😂😂😂😂😂😂😂🙈 no word of a lie 🤣 mum was just shocked she thought they were joking but nope 😂 only way they'd let me keep trying at school was if I spoke to the school priest once a week 🙄 needless to say that didn't go great so I was just removed from the school completely and left to it coz I was 15 and could leave in a year anyway 🙄 this was like 15 years ago so I'm hoping things have changed now that ADHD is much more well known!
Working in the public school system unfortunately I see this a lot. It’s very sad but you can’t really blame the teachers or the schools. They are not given the resources they need (like extra paras) to handle more extreme behaviors.
Thank you for fighting so hard for Abigail I know she’s non verbal so she can’t do it herself but honestly, as someone who has been disabled for the past 2 years (my junior and senior year of high school - I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease) I know what it’s like to be in public school where some teaches just get it and some teachers don’t. My parents never fought for me. I was left to fight on my own in an unforgiving school system, thankfully I was blessed with the ability to advocate for myself. I’m so glad Abbie has someone to advocate for her the way Priscilla and you do, you guys truly don’t get enough credit. 💕
I'm a school psychologist and have taken to watching your vlogs as I get ready for work in the morning, although I caught this one early ;) They're such a wonderful reminder of why I do the work that I do. Thanks for making great content :)
paintthesky128 I am going into school psychology as well. Actually starting my grad program this fall! Would love to specialize in autism and fell into this channel!
Sadly it seems so many of the teachers and even therapists that have worked with my daughter at her school, and her peers, aren't interested in actually learning more about disabilities on their own. I assume you actually do care and put the work in, and thank you for that! I hope there will be more like you in the future.
paintthesky128 unfortunately your chosen field like all the helping professions is riddled with bad apples in Ma. My heart aches for kids and families who aren’t so aggressive about their children’s educations.
butterflygirl 21 while it is obvious when Abbie or any child on the spectrum shows emotion in other ways, I can rarely express with words, the wave of emotion that knocked me over, when my daughter was actually able to tell me and me hear it! 🤗
It’s so sad that we need to fight so hard for our differently abled children... the system is not designed to be helpful or easy, unfortunately and you are right that it’s about money and how a particular system wants to divert their funds... not speaking for every school system but it’s easier to approve funds for HS Football than for Education and supports needed for students
Great job fighting for your sweet daughter. I had a hard enough time just getting my daughter in speech I can not even imagine what you guys went through. I love to dip my salads too! Also anytime I'm home it's jammies for me lol And YES I'd love a podcast! I can't get enough of you guys💕💕💕
A family I used to babysit for had similar issues. Their little boy--on the autism spectrum--was not getting what he needed from public school and they eventually told the mom that they'd prefer if parents did not come in the classroom (she had previously been very involved). She went straight to the school-board and basically had to threaten a lawsuit. But she knew what her rights were. I hate to think about all the parents out there who do not have the resources/education to know their rights and assert them.
The love a parent has for a child is a powerful thing. Thank you for reminding us that as parents we are the biggest advocates our children have and that we need to speak up when we see they are not getting what they need.
Ha Abbie can't learn.... More like they didn't want to teach her. She is such a smart girl and I'm glad that she is in a school that is teaching her now. I love watching your vlogs and seeing what Abbie and you guys are up to. She is so happy with her music and I love to see her happy.
Everyone has the ability to learn. Some it just takes a lot longer. It depends on if the adults are willing to put in the effort, have patients and keep going no matter how long its taking
Im not Autistic but i have a disability witch means im 3 years behind in my learning includes reading and writing and im 26 years old. And it takes me forever to understand stuff
My mother told me to watch your videos and she was not wrong. My daughter is 3.5 and she and Abby almost seem like the same little girls. You have literally made my mother not scared of being around her granddaughter and how she will be growing up. She now wants to be more involved and I will now be binging your videos and crying like a big baby.
When you said the attorney and school board said Abby couldn’t learn anymore it broke my heart. I can’t imagine how hard that was to hear...and not reach across the table to slap them! She is such a smart young woman! She inspires me every time I watch your videos. I’m so glad that she is able to go to JSA. I hope you inspire other Autism parents to seek the potential their children deserve! I listen to podcasts all the time. Serial, S. Town, Dirty John, Raised by TV (all hail 90’s kids...no, not kids who were born in the 90’s lol), My So Called Life Podcast. So many good ones! You should defiantly do a podcast!!
Your family has given me hope with my daughter and son who are autistic my son is nonverbal since birth I will never stop being their voice . I have been threw alot with my sons special needs teacher, I have confronted her numerous times on things she has done to my son right in front me . Big hugs your family 😊
I think a podcast would be amazing. I would definitely be interested. And I teared up when you said that they tried to prove that Abbie was unteachable . I cannot even imagine how upsetting that was for you guys. So glad you won. So sorry it was so awful.
They can't say that, everyone of all abilities can learn and develop and grow. They have so much potential and people can't see that unfortunately I wish they had some degree of empathy 😭
Oh how I can relate to your school-suing experience! Although I didn't end up taking it that far, the entire 8 year experience culminated with a meeting with the principal between him, my daughter, and myself. His last words to her were, "you'll never amount to anything!" Sadly... It was the worst years of our lives. Epilogue...she completed her HSED, enrolled in college, and at 21 got married to a Marine. At 24 she now owns a beautiful home and is the mother to a 2 year old boy. Success is measured in our home by the love in your heart and home and on that she has suceeded!
Abbie is blessed to have such tenacious and loving parents. Don't get me started on school systems and avoidance of legal responsibilities. A lot of verbiage and 'optics' ie how things look. They were just trying to wear you down and hope you would give up. Certainly is an anniversary to celebrate! My golden retriever used to get hot spots every summer. I would trim the fur down and use Goldbond powder to dry them up. Podcasts are great, go for it. I enjoy watching your family because my past didn't teach me unconditional love and respect. The Maass squad are a beacon of positivity !
Rewatching in 2021 ... I hope those teachers that said she was unteachable see your vlogs now and how undeniably smart Abbie truly is . They underestimated a beautiful intelligent young woman . 💪🏼❤️
Absolutely podcast! All of those topics would be amazing. I have a teenager and a son with ADHD/Anxiety/OCD. My husband is a pastor/Chaplain and super busy. Thank you for sharing your life with us
Had the same problem in my son's school. He had ADHD and the school simply would not cooperate with developing a program to teach him even though he tested at the gifted child level. He finally dropped out of school. The school district wanted to have a top level academic reputation, and wanted to get lower achieving or more difficult to teach children out. The district actually was sued by the parents of a blind child who was not given appropriate teaching. The school lost and the family was awarded. substantial damages. In this state, Pennsylvania, a child is guaranteed an education and assistance, if needed. Nothing can infuriate me more than damage to my child. This is simply unacceptable. At the first sign of stonewalling, start gathering evidence for the inevitable lawsuit.
I was a paraprofessional and 1 on 1 for special needs students and can I just advocate that they need to pay so much more for this position? That's a tough job and I made very, very little.
As a child study team social worker/case manager, it makes me happy to see that you went that far for Abbie. I see so many cases where the parent is so negligent when it comes to the child’s education. You fought for her out of district placement and I’m glad that she’s in a placement that is beneficial to her education.
I commend you to the fullest for fighting for Abbie’s education and I feel sorry for what you had to go through but I think they do that on purpose to deter parents from going to court. It has been a VERY difficult and challenging road for me and my son in the public school system but having home based ABA service has been my saving grace. Pod casting sounds very interesting.
I am so proud of you for being excellent advocates and parents. Quick story, I switched from being a public school teacher, to working for a non profit that supports individuals with IDD. I worked in the public school system in MD and NC for 12 years. I can confidently say our public education system DOES NOT work for the average child and really fails our students with IDD. Teachers are overwhelmed, administration has unrealistic expectations set upon them. It is like being in a political nightmare with our youth at stake. I applaud you for following through with the lawsuit. Parents have become too relaxed and let their guard down with their most precious asset. We need larger PTA, more community support and realistic education goals. I could go on and on. I applaud you, you guys are awesome.
I understand you’re struggle, I had a TBI when I was seventeen and in my Senior year in high school they at first put me in special education classes. I was taken out and put in regular classes when my parents had concern. I actually was in Honors English classes and graduated with my class. She can learn!
Asa I can relate 100 percent. My oldest was Adhd and ODD. The lies that teachers have made about me and my son was ridiculous. I finally pulled him out of the public school and home schooled him. I am so happy you have her at JSA. Every child is teachable and each child learn in different ways.
That not true you are not allowed to film but i was in sped ed .but even in reg school .if they don't want a parents comming in to see how things are going then you better wonder why .also they should have video carmra in all sped ed class rooms wish they had them when .i was in school grr .but if I had a child an couldn't just come an vist unannounced.my kid wouldn't be there .
Pamela Morris that a proublem. I wish when me an my friends were at are sped Ed school they had carmra in the rooms or something. Then things wouldn't have happen to some of us
Wow, well done. Same situation for my autistic son in public school (canada). mistreatment, dishonesty...just an overall air of superiority found in the school system. I pulled my son out of public school 4 years ago this month and have homeschooled him ever since. MIRACULOUS RESULTS. way to love your child, guys! We love our kids and will do whatever it takes to find them the very best opportunities and care!
At my elementary school in my class, there was a girl with severe autism. I could tell even at 10 years old that system being provided to her did not fit... If she had any over stimming issues or overloaded, the teachers and aids would LITERALLY drag her by her hands and legs out of the classroom with her screaming. This happened on a daily basis. You could tell everything overwhelmed her by the lack of sensory tools and rooms provided for her. They were trying to make her learn like us, when it was clearly not a possibility and it started to effect my learning from being constantly distracted- never her fault but the school's. I vividly remember her loving and being amazing at art. However, our art class time was during the groundskeepers' time to mow the lawn and the sound petrified her everytime... she would cry but they made her sit anyway. The art room was right in front of the lawn with big windows. She thought the man was "coming for her", and eventually, she didn't even want to do art anymore or enter the art room at all; her only sanctuary. Same story for music classes; they made her attend even though it over stimulated her. This was the year 2005 people... long, but not that crazy long ago. I sometimes wonder where she is now and if any other type of education would have improved her life quality.
Happy Anniversary guys!! This just proves what great parents you both are!! To go into battle for your children's best interests takes a lot of courage. Like you l too had to go into battle for my boys education. They are both highly intelligent and they were not being catered for so l had to fight to get them what they needed. As you said Asa it's hard work but it shows a lot about you as a parent. Be proud of yourselves. You are raising two very amazing human beings who contribute so much to this world. Well done!! Congratulations!! Big hugs from Oz!!
Wow! I had no idea you had been through all this & I've been watching your vlogs for a while. The positivity, goodness & happiness you present each day, no-one would ever know what you've suffered. I now have a better understanding of how upsetting that recent CPS call must have been. It must have brought back bad memories of those earlier days. You are wonderful parents & advocates for BOTH your children. What you've accomplished is AMAZING! I believe you were meant to go down this full-time RUclips vlog route with your lives. The value of the knowledge you impart is immeasurable & far-reaching in terms of the long term impact on the lives of others. And, yes, please write a book! Always rooting for you here in Scotland, UK! You're my HEROES!! 💜💖
As a newer watcher of the channel hearing about the court case now confirms where all the thumbs down comes from. Likely the old school/teachers/admin. Glad you won!
I know this is an old video so you probably won’t see this, but I just graduated from college to be an elementary school teacher. I have ADHD, and through that always felt that I wanted to put in the effort to learn about the experiences of others and how their lives and the lives of their families are. That’s why I watch your videos. I love learning about the things you all experience and learning how I can be a better teacher for my future students with Autism, and better support for their families. So thank you for teaching me and helping me grow.
Thank you so much for sharing this story! I’m sharing it with all my special education friends. It is amazing how you fought for Abbie. She is an incredibly lucky girl!
I've just seen this, I've only discovered you lovely people recently. The pain and tears to achieve the goal for your child to achieve educational goals and success within their abilities and get the support is mind bending. Teenage girls with special needs is extra!🥰
Yes! I'm in desperate want for a sensible, relatable, adult podcast. I would even be interested in hearing their thoughts on stuff outside of parenting/autism. Yall are such cool, down to earth people. Do it! Just do it!
This reminds me of my childhood and public school, back in the 90's. My mom was always at the school because they did the same things to me. I struggled so much it got to the point where they didn't want to teach me, they kind of rushed me through to not have to deal with my mom or me. I had an I.E.P that was almost the size of a phone book but that was a fight for them to follow it...it was really bad. The teachers didn't care. Now I have 4 different functional/support workers that I meet with Monday - Friday that help me with my day; Organize my meds, set up and go to appointments, shopping etc. and getting out into the world. I do IMR and ABA Therapy DBT, and a few other ones. So my entire week is full with a treatment team member to help me "adult" to say lol. I am happy for you taking initiative in standing up for Abbie's rights.
Great video, very informative. I am sorry that you all had to go through that battle with a school district to get what Abbie needed but I can see that it surely was worth it. I have a grandson in special education in a public school and I sometimes worry that he isn't getting all that he needs. I hope your video will help other parents to know that there is hope for their child. God bless you for taking the time to speak about your experience. At the other end of the scale, you have a son who is gifted and appears to be getting a wonderful education. I have a son who is gifted and took some very difficult classes in high school and today we can say it was worth all the effort he put into it. Keep pressing on, Isaiah.
This is my 3rd year as a paraprofessional in life skill class and I've learned so much on what to do and what not to do. I can honestly say I've seen good teachers and bad in special education. It's not for everyone. Eventually I would love to become a special education teacher. I love watching these vlogs because they are very informative and it allows me to observe the family side. I hope and pray that I provide the best service to my future students and even to the ones I aide to now. I am excited to have my future classroom.
This is so awesome. My advocate, family and I nearly had to file for due process before they finally accepted private day placement for my iep. It took 2 full years of many meetings, arguments, documents, advocates, etc. but we did it. I truly know how hard it is and I have so much respect for you and your family. So glad Abby found her perfect placement, just how I have found mine. Love your videos and love your family. Keep up the awesome work!
Public schools have a hard time educating kids not on the spectrum. We went one year and homeschooled 1st grade thru 12th. Best thing we ever did for a million different reasons. Glad you put up your dukes!
@@barbraworkman5122 Yes they can. Depending on your state and their laws. In mine the state has to provide the student a proper education to meet their needs. If they don't provide it in that school they are required to put that child in a school that meets those needs. I know someone who has a deaf child and the school didn't have a translated and couldn't find one in the town. So they paid for the child to go m-f to go to a deaf and blind school. That included room and board as well. If you move out of that district though you lose their help.
Your story only makes me wonder just how many similar kids in the hands of well-meaning but overly-accepting parents lose in the system. Wish you had the #maasssquad for support back then, bro. Oh, and a book on the story? PPP cookbook comes first! 😝
There are advocates out there to help and ombudsmen who can take legal action on their behalf. In addition, there are often overseeing government agencies to hold institutions such as this accountable and taking them to task when a complaint is filed. The fact that it had to go to court is a travesty IMO. It illustrates a breakdown not only at the staff level but at the administrative level as well. Was there no government oversight? Sadly though, it could have been MUCH worse - and maybe it was. The fact that he said that there are things he still can't say indicates that.
Sadly my husband and I were some of those parents in the beginning. I think the whole IEP school team could see us coming a mile away. Even some of the good staff seemed to WANT to tell us we could do better but would risk losing their jobs if they spoke out. Our child regressed last year in her pre-k program, and have been lied to re-occuringly even by the school district representative. They have showed less transparency than my nephew/niece's school has and they are not children with "special needs". I am learning how much bad stuff happens at the schools and how much they get away with it, and making parents feel powerless to make a choice but I'm also learning about my child's rights and our rights as parents. As an advocate for a special needs child especially you have to be ready to fight the school system unfortunately. Playing nice never seems to work, someone will take advantage.
I was a warehouses kid. I have dyslexia and was written off as a lost cause but they wanted the money they got for me being in a ese class. I was told, to my face, that I would never go to college or succeed in life. I've graduated from college, gone back for other stuff and I'm 6 credits away from another degree. I'm also a wife and mom of 3 beautiful kids. My experience has given me a insight into how to help my youngest who has autism. Thanks for sharing your legal and personal struggle. I cried, first with sadness for the struggle, but than with joy for the win for Abby. So glad for you guys.
Due process is a hassle, is emotional,y draining, mentally draining. It’s not easy but unfortunately many families have to go through it. I’m going to school to be a special education teacher. It’s not fair for families to go through this, it really isn’t.
Asa my granddaughters first week of kindergarten in public school she was punched kicked and thrown down by a bully. We weren't allowed to know the kids name to contact parents. I wasnt allowed to walk her too class, or sit in and observe, later found out she had escaped and they had to barricade the door with a desk. I never knew what she learned very little reported. First IEP I had sat around a board table with 20 specialist they made her seem like she was a deaf mute and was hopeless. I must say though early intervention preschool was fantastic she learned so much from those teachers they were the best! I now home school it was best decision ever.
I just started watching your channel a couple of months ago so while I'm in quarantine I'm taking the time to watch all your videos. I just wanted to say that I totally understand your position in this whole situation. I have. 20 year old son who has severe Asperger's and I spent his whole school life here in Australia fighting the school system to get him a. Education. I could talk for days about all the bad experiences we had. It was all worth it though. You guys are doing a great job. With Abbie. Thank you for showing the world what it's really like to have a child on the spectrum
I know exactly how you feel being let down with the education system, It’s happened to my family also, It’s horrible, But like you we have came out the others side stronger and knowing our children are receiving the help they need and deserve.
Oh, and Priscilla is 100% right on the "all in your mind" concerning the salad, and I can prove it: I dislike the taste of a homemade salad that I have made but when my honey makes it using the same ingredients it tastes great. Can't explain it. Except love, I guess.
I have a 17 year old severely autistic brother who is also nonverbal. I’m almost 20 years old and have been watching your channel for months. I can’t help but to be so happy. Because you understand what my family goes through. Isaiah understands what i go through as an older sibling with a younger sibling of autism. I’m so grateful to know you are vocal and spreading awareness. You are an amazing family. Words can never describe how much this means to me and my family. Thank you so so so much. ❤️❤️
Right when you mentioned doing a podcast my heart started racing! I would watch your podcast on repeat!! Please do it! I listen to podcasts in my car 24/7. I would love it!
I listen to podcasts to help me fall asleep at night. I have no idea why, but talking knocks me right out no matter what the subject is. I tried music but for some reason that made me anxious.
middleC17 I get too into the beat with the music and can’t sleep. But I can’t do quiet either. And the TV gets me invested too. Podcasts knock me out. Curious by Josh Peck is a great one for me. His voice soothes me!
Ugh, my son had a teacher who was a pathological liar last year. A nightmare. I cannot even begin to imagine how much harder that would have been if my son couldn't verbalize what was going on.
I’m so sorry for the experience you had in public school. As a sibling and teacher, that breaks my heart, but I also understand the struggle. I’m so thankful you accessed your due process rights and found the right place for your girl and.family.
Yay, congrats on 4 years at JSA Abbie! ❤️ You’ve grown so much and you’re going to keep flourishing. I hope you have many more happy years there to come. Xx
Thankfully you advocated for her! I work with adults with Autism who didn't have appropriate education and my crew and I have taught them so much. The school often just lets the students sleep so they aren't causing problems. So great to see Abigail come so far!
Thank goodness you were able to get Abby out of public school and into an environment she can learn in! As we've all seen she fully capable of learning and much more! I have severe- profound hearing impediments in both ears and although hearing aids help me tremendously I understand very little without the help of captions. As valuable as podcasts from you would be, I can't really listen to them. I've done animal rescue for years and many pet health issues are diet related regardless of whether they are premium pet diets or not. Consistency wise most dry dog foods provide the nutrients most dogs need, just as Cinnamon Toast Crunch provides the necessary nutrients Abby needs for breakfast. With the keto diet you guys are on Maverick may benefit from eating dinner with you and over time it might help prevent hot spot flares. If it is something you want to try, don't change his current diet. Just offer him a toddler size portion of whatever you are having veggies and all. You may need to chop the veggies up so he doesn't just pick out the meat. The "harmful" table scraps stems from people giving their fatty high carb low nutrient leftovers to the dog while clearing the table, which is never recommended. I must applaud you for using a soft neck doughnut instead of a traditional plastic cone! Thanks again for a wonderful video!
How could they think that your smart, sassy little girl was unteachable? It just goes to show how much they know. Well done to the two of you for fighting for Abbie’s right to a proper education. It’s not every family that could do what you two have done so congratulations to you both for making sure she has the resources to learn as much as she possibly can. Happy 4th anniversary of good education.
Thanks for sharing this wonderful anniversary with us. I’m so glad that Abbie is able to progress and learn at JSA and that your family is in a good place. I’m all for a podcast!!!! I love to listen on the way to work!
"Cow on top of salad" that is hilarious. Your experience with the school sounds horrifying. My daughter was diagnosed as autistic just recently, what we just considered a speech delay after a traumatic event was apparently much more than we thought. She doesn't have any learning disabilities but I get so much out of watching your channel and just seeing how you handle different situations. Thank you for all the positivity you bring !
I’ve just became a kindergarten teacher and hearing that a teacher would claim a child is unteachable is truly upsetting. Every child is capable of learning somehow...you adapt that curriculum to suit that child’s needs. I love your family by the way, everyone makes my heart happy😁💕
I am so sorry your family and Abbie specifically had to deal with such an awful public school experience. As a college student studying Early Childhood Education, I hurt for you. I'm not going into Special Education specifically but I'll likely get some special kiddos in my room with inclusion. Your family has shown and taught me so much. :) Abbie is such a sweet soul and I hate to picture her and you and such an awful situation. I'm glad you found such a good place for her! Keep on jamming, Abbie!
I understand this all to well. My son has adhd, ocd, and impulse control issues. He’s 14 now and almost at mainstream classroom level. However, when he was younger he didn’t make progress due to having a new special ed teacher every year. They’d say they were staying and then decide to leave half way through and stop caring. My so was able to leave school and come home without anyone noticing. I had to call the school and ask why he was allowed to leave. They hadn’t even realized. He’s come so far in the last 2 years with teachers that care about him and his progress. I’m glad Abbie now has teachers that care about her and her education. Every child deserves it.
You guys remind me so much of my parents, which is the highest complement I can pay. You prove every day that good parenting is active, not passive, and sometimes means you have to fight for your kid. When I become a father someday, you will be among to examples I look to. Thank you for that.
My twin sis and I were abused in public school in combined regular ed and special ed class, my parents fought for us. Public schools need more program for special education students, my twin and I had to go to private school for my learning disability since the public school did not have the right program for us. The private school was worth it since we are in college with regular ed students since the skills taught us in the school we use in college.
Growing up I had problems with the public school in high school. Special education was playing nasty. My family fought back for the right education for my needs. The school finally gave in and let me take the classes that I wanted to take.
I have Cerebral Palsy, and I grew up in public school. My mother had to fight constantly to get me what I needed, and we had lots of ups and downs, and it's because of my experiences that I have reservations about placing my kids in public school when they're born and come to the right age. They don't even exist yet, and it seriously terrifies me thinking of putting them in public. I am so so happy you've found JSA!
Omigosh I never put two & two together, I remember the news coverage about y’alls fight and the FB page “Big Fight for a Little Girl”.....I also remember being thoroughly disgusted with the school board!!!
My husband and I had to take our son out of a situation at the Public School level that was unsafe and non productive for him. I found the perfect inclusion school. I even left me former employer and became a teacher at his school. It is such a load off my back to know he is in the same building and I can monitor him.
Hey so I found you guys on facebook and lately I've been watching your older videos, my brother has autism and I wish I would've found you earlier because your blog is so helpful! Abigail has grown so many skills and it inspires me to become a better teacher than my brother has ever had. I honestly dont know if you'll see this but I love your family how hard you all work together with Abigail.
I’m so sorry that you, your family, and so many others had to go through that long, difficult, and heart wrenching process to simply receive what should be offered.
K i live in western europe, our special needs schools dont understand autism. They still its behaviour instead of sensory issues. My comment was about that not about the health care.
As a teacher at a public school, I am extremely saddened that this happened to Abbie and your family. I am so glad Abbie is now getting the education she deserves. I know I'm just one person, just one teacher, but I personally believe every child is capable of learning and success. It doesn't matter what route you take, everyone can get to where they need to be given the right support and resources; which is what I try my best to provide to my students. Your family is so inspiring to me, and to so many others. Thanks for always being thoughtful, honest, kind, and loving❤️
I am so glad you could fight the public school for Abby's education ! I will not forget the guidance counselor telling me they didn't think they could handle my child! (Never mind we are related ) ...My reply was , she doesn't need you to handle her, she needs you to teach her.! I had to take her to another school. She went from "f's" to "A's n B's" ! Thank You for helping so many parents!
I was a behavior therapist for many years and worked with some amazing people and students. I worked in the public school system for 6 months and I couldn’t do it. I saw things that I could not be a part of. So understaffed, under resources and because of that the school was very negligent and almost falling into the abuse category. It was horrible. I raised many red flags and because of that I was asked to either be quiet or leave. Well I left. But I still think about those kiddos and how I should have done more.
My daughter has autism as well and she has the best therapist. Her therapist lives by this quote "If a child can't learn the way we teach, maybe we should teach the way they learn." - Ignacio Estrada
"unteachable" whatever teacher said that needs to lose their right to be one...
Kids with autism can have a lot of grow potential in the right environment indeed
It's really rude and unfair for a teacher to be making those kinds of comments!! People of all abilities can learn and grow.
When a teacher says someone is unteachable, that says something about the teacher's ability to teach, not the kid.
They can still learn they are not incapable of being taught yes the might need other things to keep them focus but that does not make them unteachable
That comment sounds more arrogant than ignorant to me.
It took 21 years for my bother to finally be diagnosed with Aspergers (he was previously diagnosed with ADHD, bipolar, anxiety, and depression) 21 years of waking up at 2 am to him screaming, breaking things, and trying to hurt himself. Isaiah has taught me so much about how to love my sibling. It’s so easy to feel alone because nobody understands. This channel has brought me so much happiness. You guys are AMAZING parents.
Sierra Bailey I hope that his Diagnosis will help him to get the help and support he needs. I have autism and go to a number of therapy’s and it helps alot
Men that grew up with disabled siblings make the best husbands. Whoever marries Isaiah will be a lucky lady.
Jeronus ikr haha
Amen
True especially if it isgentic is latest tuner ???
True! My husbands brother is on the spectrum!
@@kelly-ellie3543 are you my sister in law?
the sad thing is, there are two types of parents with children with special needs. Parents who don’t mind the warehousing and will do whatever it takes just to hide their child out of embarrassment and downplay their disability. and parents who want the best for their child and want development for them no matter what it takes. Asa and Priscilla are two of the best parents i’ve ever seen and took abbies educational ability’s to a whole new level.
I just want to say how cute that beginning scene where Abby and Isaiah were playing he is the best brother some brothers would hate playing with there kid sister
No student is “unteachable” 😡. It all comes down to the teachers.
And the way things are approached and taught to each individual.
I wish I could "heart" this comment!
True coming from view point of a school victom or myself was accused of being mentally challenged:( no just didn't talk well due to ADHD n ceraibal pulsey ant num of things
District support and teacher training and development as well as accountability needs to happen. Collaborative efforts between speech and OT and Para etc. The entire educational team has to be serious! Same story everywhere in the USA! I’m going to be writing a book too! Especially about the illegal use of restraint.
Hum...I could add alot to these comments, however, everyone has an opinion. Have any of you ever been a teacher? Just wondering where your expert opinions are coming from? Experience? Probably not.
They said she was unable to learn??? That’s messed up. Why would there be a special needs program at schools if they were unable to learn?? Ughhh so frustrating
A lot of people see school as a daycare when it came to special needs kids.
Quinn The Fennic Fox what??? No they are just sending their children to school..
It's not that children are unable to learn, it's that "teachers" are unable to teach.
I love Isaiah he is so good with Abby. Summer is also so good with Abby. You have two wonderful children and one amazing friend.
I love your family and I continue to cheer for you all!
Warehoused : basically shoved into a room/ corner and labeled as difficult / to hard / vegetive and for all intensive purposes forgotten about or refusal to be taught by staff.
Thank you for explaining that. I was assuming thats what it meant but wasnt sure :)
ThePink Unicorn thank you! I was wondering what that meant.
The fact that there is a word for it is pretty sad. And thinking back, it fits what they did to my 'difficult' ADHD child for years
I was warehoused only due to having bad ADHD, PTSD and selective mutism(this was usually nerves related I think coz I'm okay now at talking infact I don't shut up 😅😂) I wasn't even that difficult honestly they just gave up on me way way too quickly 😣 I was put in the learning support base alot of the time where I wasn't even taught anything I was just sitting playing on a computer while being babysat🙄 I wasn't even aggressive just talked alot and was impulsive 🙈 dunno if this makes a difference but i went to a Catholic school and one teacher actually uttered the words "she's possessed by demons" to MY PARENTS 😬😂😂😂😂😂😂😂🙈 no word of a lie 🤣 mum was just shocked she thought they were joking but nope 😂 only way they'd let me keep trying at school was if I spoke to the school priest once a week 🙄 needless to say that didn't go great so I was just removed from the school completely and left to it coz I was 15 and could leave in a year anyway 🙄 this was like 15 years ago so I'm hoping things have changed now that ADHD is much more well known!
Working in the public school system unfortunately I see this a lot. It’s very sad but you can’t really blame the teachers or the schools. They are not given the resources they need (like extra paras) to handle more extreme behaviors.
You and your wife are two very fantastic caring parents that takes care of both of you children.Congratulations on your four years Abbie.
Thank you!
You guys are doing your best and you give her what she needs that's what matters most
I agree
FatheringAutism I’m disabled too. Mine fought too
Thank you for fighting so hard for Abigail I know she’s non verbal so she can’t do it herself but honestly, as someone who has been disabled for the past 2 years (my junior and senior year of high school - I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease) I know what it’s like to be in public school where some teaches just get it and some teachers don’t. My parents never fought for me. I was left to fight on my own in an unforgiving school system, thankfully I was blessed with the ability to advocate for myself. I’m so glad Abbie has someone to advocate for her the way Priscilla and you do, you guys truly don’t get enough credit. 💕
I'm a school psychologist and have taken to watching your vlogs as I get ready for work in the morning, although I caught this one early ;) They're such a wonderful reminder of why I do the work that I do. Thanks for making great content :)
paintthesky128 I am going into school psychology as well. Actually starting my grad program this fall! Would love to specialize in autism and fell into this channel!
Sadly it seems so many of the teachers and even therapists that have worked with my daughter at her school, and her peers, aren't interested in actually learning more about disabilities on their own. I assume you actually do care and put the work in, and thank you for that! I hope there will be more like you in the future.
paintthesky128 I’m one too! :)
paintthesky128 unfortunately your chosen field like all the helping professions is riddled with bad apples in Ma. My heart aches for kids and families who aren’t so aggressive about their children’s educations.
paintthesky128 is
Every child needs parents like you. I am a teacher and respect parents who fight for their kids. Keep it up!
I think you should put a button on Abbies dynovox that says "I love you mom" "I love you dad"
Minnow Mania yep
That would be nice
that's a great idea! abby would probably love to be able to say that whenever she wants!
butterflygirl 21 while it is obvious when Abbie or any child on the spectrum shows emotion in other ways, I can rarely express with words, the wave of emotion that knocked me over, when my daughter was actually able to tell me and me hear it! 🤗
It’s so sad that we need to fight so hard for our differently abled children... the system is not designed to be helpful or easy, unfortunately and you are right that it’s about money and how a particular system wants to divert their funds... not speaking for every school system but it’s easier to approve funds for HS Football than for Education and supports needed for students
Great job fighting for your sweet daughter. I had a hard enough time just getting my daughter in speech I can not even imagine what you guys went through.
I love to dip my salads too! Also anytime I'm home it's jammies for me lol
And YES I'd love a podcast! I can't get enough of you guys💕💕💕
Bella Boo's Lunches heyyyyyy❤️❤️❤️❤️
Would love to hear a podcast with Isaiah to speak about his experiences growing up within the family.
A family I used to babysit for had similar issues. Their little boy--on the autism spectrum--was not getting what he needed from public school and they eventually told the mom that they'd prefer if parents did not come in the classroom (she had previously been very involved). She went straight to the school-board and basically had to threaten a lawsuit. But she knew what her rights were. I hate to think about all the parents out there who do not have the resources/education to know their rights and assert them.
The love a parent has for a child is a powerful thing. Thank you for reminding us that as parents we are the biggest advocates our children have and that we need to speak up when we see they are not getting what they need.
And the podcast.. Yes sounds like a good idea.
Ha Abbie can't learn.... More like they didn't want to teach her. She is such a smart girl and I'm glad that she is in a school that is teaching her now. I love watching your vlogs and seeing what Abbie and you guys are up to. She is so happy with her music and I love to see her happy.
I agree
Everyone has the ability to learn. Some it just takes a lot longer. It depends on if the adults are willing to put in the effort, have patients and keep going no matter how long its taking
Im not Autistic but i have a disability witch means im 3 years behind in my learning includes reading and writing and im 26 years old. And it takes me forever to understand stuff
Preech it
Viv H more like they couldnt be bother to teach her
My mother told me to watch your videos and she was not wrong. My daughter is 3.5 and she and Abby almost seem like the same little girls. You have literally made my mother not scared of being around her granddaughter and how she will be growing up. She now wants to be more involved and I will now be binging your videos and crying like a big baby.
Give me a FREAKING podcast!!! Yes yes yes!!
Lauren Brazee ❤️
Yes definitely a podcast
When you said the attorney and school board said Abby couldn’t learn anymore it broke my heart. I can’t imagine how hard that was to hear...and not reach across the table to slap them! She is such a smart young woman! She inspires me every time I watch your videos. I’m so glad that she is able to go to JSA. I hope you inspire other Autism parents to seek the potential their children deserve!
I listen to podcasts all the time. Serial, S. Town, Dirty John, Raised by TV (all hail 90’s kids...no, not kids who were born in the 90’s lol), My So Called Life Podcast. So many good ones!
You should defiantly do a podcast!!
"Unteachable" wow... That's an appalling way to view a child. Very well done guys
Your family has given me hope with my daughter and son who are autistic my son is nonverbal since birth I will never stop being their voice . I have been threw alot with my sons special needs teacher, I have confronted her numerous times on things she has done to my son right in front me . Big hugs your family 😊
I think a podcast would be amazing. I would definitely be interested.
And I teared up when you said that they tried to prove that Abbie was unteachable . I cannot even imagine how upsetting that was for you guys. So glad you won. So sorry it was so awful.
Someday I'll Sleep Autism Vlogs she’s teachable it will just take a lot of repeating along with reminders
They can't say that, everyone of all abilities can learn and develop and grow. They have so much potential and people can't see that unfortunately I wish they had some degree of empathy 😭
I'm thankful they won though 💝☺️
Oh how I can relate to your school-suing experience! Although I didn't end up taking it that far, the entire 8 year experience culminated with a meeting with the principal between him, my daughter, and myself. His last words to her were, "you'll never amount to anything!" Sadly...
It was the worst years of our lives.
Epilogue...she completed her HSED, enrolled in college, and at 21 got married to a Marine. At 24 she now owns a beautiful home and is the mother to a 2 year old boy. Success is measured in our home by the love in your heart and home and on that she has suceeded!
wow, what could a child possibly do to make a grown man think it's ok to say something like that directly to them?! so abusive
Peggie Stafford .... ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
Abbie is blessed to have such tenacious and loving parents. Don't get me started on school systems and avoidance of legal responsibilities. A lot of verbiage and 'optics' ie how things look. They were just trying to wear you down and hope you would give up. Certainly is an anniversary to celebrate! My golden retriever used to get hot spots every summer. I would trim the fur down and use Goldbond powder to dry them up. Podcasts are great, go for it. I enjoy watching your family because my past didn't teach me unconditional love and respect. The Maass squad are a beacon of positivity !
Rewatching in 2021 ... I hope those teachers that said she was unteachable see your vlogs now and how undeniably smart Abbie truly is .
They underestimated a beautiful intelligent young woman . 💪🏼❤️
Also , “knowing” 2021 Asa ... the glasses were not to be “cool” they were to hide a tear a two . ❤️😢😎🤫
Absolutely podcast! All of those topics would be amazing. I have a teenager and a son with ADHD/Anxiety/OCD. My husband is a pastor/Chaplain and super busy.
Thank you for sharing your life with us
Had the same problem in my son's school. He had ADHD and the school simply would not cooperate with developing a program to teach him even though he tested at the gifted child level. He finally dropped out of school. The school district wanted to have a top level academic reputation, and wanted to get lower achieving or more difficult to teach children out. The district actually was sued by the parents of a blind child who was not given appropriate teaching. The school lost and the family was awarded. substantial damages. In this state, Pennsylvania, a child is guaranteed an education and assistance, if needed. Nothing can infuriate me more than damage to my child. This is simply unacceptable. At the first sign of stonewalling, start gathering evidence for the inevitable lawsuit.
I was a paraprofessional and 1 on 1 for special needs students and can I just advocate that they need to pay so much more for this position? That's a tough job and I made very, very little.
I've been a special education para for 3 years and I totally agree with you!
Yeah, it's an important, tiring, and wonderful position and deserves a liveable wage. I only made $13k a year doing that.
Mel Bee I agree! I’m a special ed teacher and paras are God’s hands on this earth!
I was one in as well and I totally agree! I miss the kids I worked with but I had to leave to so I can actually make money to pay bills.
@@DigiForever Exactly! The kids and teachers were amazing, but the pay was not.
Abbie is such a sweet, smart, beautiful girl who always brings a smile to my face. So happy she is in a school that helps her to learn and thrive.
Asa, You writing a book is a fantastic idea. Seriously, you should do this.
I think so as well!
I’d read a book about them in a heartbeat! ❤️
I have a non verbal niece and the bible talks about the end of time and the new world order nwo and the rapture
How do I subscribe
As a child study team social worker/case manager, it makes me happy to see that you went that far for Abbie. I see so many cases where the parent is so negligent when it comes to the child’s education. You fought for her out of district placement and I’m glad that she’s in a placement that is beneficial to her education.
I commend you to the fullest for fighting for Abbie’s education and I feel sorry for what you had to go through but I think they do that on purpose to deter parents from going to court. It has been a VERY difficult and challenging road for me and my son in the public school system but having home based ABA service has been my saving grace. Pod casting sounds very interesting.
I love watching Isaiah interact with Abby, you can really tell he loves her. Its so sweet he has such a kind soul
I am so proud of you for being excellent advocates and parents. Quick story, I switched from being a public school teacher, to working for a non profit that supports individuals with IDD. I worked in the public school system in MD and NC for 12 years. I can confidently say our public education system DOES NOT work for the average child and really fails our students with IDD. Teachers are overwhelmed, administration has unrealistic expectations set upon them. It is like being in a political nightmare with our youth at stake. I applaud you for following through with the lawsuit. Parents have become too relaxed and let their guard down with their most precious asset. We need larger PTA, more community support and realistic education goals. I could go on and on. I applaud you, you guys are awesome.
I understand you’re struggle, I had a TBI when I was seventeen and in my Senior year in high school they at first put me in special education classes. I was taken out and put in regular classes when my parents had concern. I actually was in Honors English classes and graduated with my class. She can learn!
Asa I can relate 100 percent. My oldest was Adhd and ODD. The lies that teachers have made about me and my son was ridiculous. I finally pulled him out of the public school and home schooled him. I am so happy you have her at JSA. Every child is teachable and each child learn in different ways.
When you trail blaze like this it inspires others! It can be hard to fight the system. Well done!
If a parent isn't allowed to come in the classrooms that a big red flag
My parents had to do the same thing for me also
ATTRIA joy parents aren’t allowed to come into the classroom because of laws that protect other minors’ right to privacy.
That not true you are not allowed to film but i was in sped ed .but even in reg school .if they don't want a parents comming in to see how things are going then you better wonder why .also they should have video carmra in all sped ed class rooms wish they had them when .i was in school grr .but if I had a child an couldn't just come an vist unannounced.my kid wouldn't be there .
Neil K Whoever told you that either didn’t know, lied, or is just plain ignorant. FERPA. Look it up AND read it.
Rachel Rubin USA
Pamela Morris that a proublem. I wish when me an my friends were at are sped Ed school they had carmra in the rooms or something. Then things wouldn't have happen to some of us
Wow, well done. Same situation for my autistic son in public school (canada).
mistreatment, dishonesty...just an overall air of superiority found in the school system. I pulled my son out of public school 4 years ago this month and have homeschooled him ever since.
MIRACULOUS RESULTS.
way to love your child, guys!
We love our kids and will do whatever it takes to find them the very best opportunities and care!
Isiah and abby are blessed to have Priscilla and you as parents . Your amazing and care so much about both of them . Keep up the good work
At my elementary school in my class, there was a girl with severe autism. I could tell even at 10 years old that system being provided to her did not fit... If she had any over stimming issues or overloaded, the teachers and aids would LITERALLY drag her by her hands and legs out of the classroom with her screaming. This happened on a daily basis. You could tell everything overwhelmed her by the lack of sensory tools and rooms provided for her. They were trying to make her learn like us, when it was clearly not a possibility and it started to effect my learning from being constantly distracted- never her fault but the school's. I vividly remember her loving and being amazing at art. However, our art class time was during the groundskeepers' time to mow the lawn and the sound petrified her everytime... she would cry but they made her sit anyway. The art room was right in front of the lawn with big windows. She thought the man was "coming for her", and eventually, she didn't even want to do art anymore or enter the art room at all; her only sanctuary. Same story for music classes; they made her attend even though it over stimulated her. This was the year 2005 people... long, but not that crazy long ago. I sometimes wonder where she is now and if any other type of education would have improved her life quality.
Happy Anniversary guys!! This just proves what great parents you both are!! To go into battle for your children's best interests takes a lot of courage. Like you l too had to go into battle for my boys education.
They are both highly intelligent and they were not being catered for so l had to fight to get them what they needed. As you said Asa it's hard work but it shows a lot about you as a parent. Be proud of yourselves. You are raising two very amazing human beings who contribute so much to this world. Well done!! Congratulations!!
Big hugs from Oz!!
Wow! I had no idea you had been through all this & I've been watching your vlogs for a while. The positivity, goodness & happiness you present each day, no-one would ever know what you've suffered. I now have a better understanding of how upsetting that recent CPS call must have been. It must have brought back bad memories of those earlier days. You are wonderful parents & advocates for BOTH your children. What you've accomplished is AMAZING!
I believe you were meant to go down this full-time RUclips vlog route with your lives. The value of the knowledge you impart is immeasurable & far-reaching in terms of the long term impact on the lives of others.
And, yes, please write a book!
Always rooting for you here in Scotland, UK! You're my HEROES!! 💜💖
As a newer watcher of the channel hearing about the court case now confirms where all the thumbs down comes from. Likely the old school/teachers/admin. Glad you won!
Also some ppl think "I dislike how the school system did Abbie so thumbs down" not realizing it hurts the channel in RUclips's algorithm
@@andih5895 does it really hurt the channel? I thought I heard another RUclipsr say, up or down is still activity on the channel. IDK
I know this is an old video so you probably won’t see this, but I just graduated from college to be an elementary school teacher. I have ADHD, and through that always felt that I wanted to put in the effort to learn about the experiences of others and how their lives and the lives of their families are. That’s why I watch your videos. I love learning about the things you all experience and learning how I can be a better teacher for my future students with Autism, and better support for their families. So thank you for teaching me and helping me grow.
Thank you so much for sharing this story! I’m sharing it with all my special education friends. It is amazing how you fought for Abbie. She is an incredibly lucky girl!
I've just seen this, I've only discovered you lovely people recently.
The pain and tears to achieve the goal for your child to achieve educational goals and success within their abilities and get the support is mind bending.
Teenage girls with special needs is extra!🥰
I love podcasts! I listed to them all the time while driving or cleaning! I'm 100% for a Fathering Autism Podcast!!!
Asa, it’s Tech Tuesday. Check out the twit.tv network for awesome nerdy podcasts!
I would also listen to a podcast by your family. I’d love something the same length as your videos or maybe a half hour?
Yes! I'm in desperate want for a sensible, relatable, adult podcast. I would even be interested in hearing their thoughts on stuff outside of parenting/autism. Yall are such cool, down to earth people. Do it! Just do it!
This reminds me of my childhood and public school, back in the 90's. My mom was always at the school because they did the same things to me. I struggled so much it got to the point where they didn't want to teach me, they kind of rushed me through to not have to deal with my mom or me. I had an I.E.P that was almost the size of a phone book but that was a fight for them to follow it...it was really bad. The teachers didn't care. Now I have 4 different functional/support workers that I meet with Monday - Friday that help me with my day; Organize my meds, set up and go to appointments, shopping etc. and getting out into the world. I do IMR and ABA Therapy DBT, and a few other ones. So my entire week is full with a treatment team member to help me "adult" to say lol. I am happy for you taking initiative in standing up for Abbie's rights.
Was Isaiah still in public school when your lawsuit was occurring? How was he impacted by what was going on with Abby?
I was wondering this as well :)
They would be in different schools and while it may have fallen under the same umbrella. I would say it really wouldn’t have any impact on him.
You're Right It will. Unions don’t protect the children. They hold it against the students.
Great video, very informative. I am sorry that you all had to go through that battle with a school district to get what Abbie needed but I can see that it surely was worth it. I have a grandson in special education in a public school and I sometimes worry that he isn't getting all that he needs. I hope your video will help other parents to know that there is hope for their child. God bless you for taking the time to speak about your experience. At the other end of the scale, you have a son who is gifted and appears to be getting a wonderful education. I have a son who is gifted and took some very difficult classes in high school and today we can say it was worth all the effort he put into it. Keep pressing on, Isaiah.
This is my 3rd year as a paraprofessional in life skill class and I've learned so much on what to do and what not to do. I can honestly say I've seen good teachers and bad in special education. It's not for everyone. Eventually I would love to become a special education teacher. I love watching these vlogs because they are very informative and it allows me to observe the family side. I hope and pray that I provide the best service to my future students and even to the ones I aide to now. I am excited to have my future classroom.
This is so awesome. My advocate, family and I nearly had to file for due process before they finally accepted private day placement for my iep. It took 2 full years of many meetings, arguments, documents, advocates, etc. but we did it. I truly know how hard it is and I have so much respect for you and your family. So glad Abby found her perfect placement, just how I have found mine. Love your videos and love your family. Keep up the awesome work!
Public schools have a hard time educating kids not on the spectrum. We went one year and homeschooled 1st grade thru 12th. Best thing we ever did for a million different reasons. Glad you put up your dukes!
Can public schools pay for homeschooling? They want to send my son to a therapeutic school with therapists and teachers.
@@barbraworkman5122 Yes they can. Depending on your state and their laws. In mine the state has to provide the student a proper education to meet their needs. If they don't provide it in that school they are required to put that child in a school that meets those needs. I know someone who has a deaf child and the school didn't have a translated and couldn't find one in the town. So they paid for the child to go m-f to go to a deaf and blind school. That included room and board as well. If you move out of that district though you lose their help.
I absolutely hate how hard it can be to fight the district for appropriate education or out of district placement
Your story only makes me wonder just how many similar kids in the hands of well-meaning but overly-accepting parents lose in the system.
Wish you had the #maasssquad for support back then, bro.
Oh, and a book on the story? PPP cookbook comes first! 😝
There are advocates out there to help and ombudsmen who can take legal action on their behalf. In addition, there are often overseeing government agencies to hold institutions such as this accountable and taking them to task when a complaint is filed.
The fact that it had to go to court is a travesty IMO. It illustrates a breakdown not only at the staff level but at the administrative level as well. Was there no government oversight?
Sadly though, it could have been MUCH worse - and maybe it was. The fact that he said that there are things he still can't say indicates that.
Sadly my husband and I were some of those parents in the beginning. I think the whole IEP school team could see us coming a mile away. Even some of the good staff seemed to WANT to tell us we could do better but would risk losing their jobs if they spoke out. Our child regressed last year in her pre-k program, and have been lied to re-occuringly even by the school district representative.
They have showed less transparency than my nephew/niece's school has and they are not children with "special needs". I am learning how much bad stuff happens at the schools and how much they get away with it, and making parents feel powerless to make a choice but I'm also learning about my child's rights and our rights as parents. As an advocate for a special needs child especially you have to be ready to fight the school system unfortunately. Playing nice never seems to work, someone will take advantage.
I was a warehouses kid. I have dyslexia and was written off as a lost cause but they wanted the money they got for me being in a ese class. I was told, to my face, that I would never go to college or succeed in life. I've graduated from college, gone back for other stuff and I'm 6 credits away from another degree. I'm also a wife and mom of 3 beautiful kids. My experience has given me a insight into how to help my youngest who has autism. Thanks for sharing your legal and personal struggle. I cried, first with sadness for the struggle, but than with joy for the win for Abby. So glad for you guys.
That's awesome, Virginia. Congratulations!
About to head down this road with one of my kiddos 😪
Due process is a hassle, is emotional,y draining, mentally draining. It’s not easy but unfortunately many families have to go through it. I’m going to school to be a special education teacher. It’s not fair for families to go through this, it really isn’t.
Yay!! Congrats on 4 years Abbie!
Asa my granddaughters first week of kindergarten in public school she was punched kicked and thrown down by a bully. We weren't allowed to know the kids name to contact parents. I wasnt allowed to walk her too class, or sit in and observe, later found out she had escaped and they had to barricade the door with a desk. I never knew what she learned very little reported. First IEP I had sat around a board table with 20 specialist they made her seem like she was a deaf mute and was hopeless. I must say though early intervention preschool was fantastic she learned so much from those teachers they were the best! I now home school it was best decision ever.
I just started watching your channel a couple of months ago so while I'm in quarantine I'm taking the time to watch all your videos. I just wanted to say that I totally understand your position in this whole situation. I have. 20 year old son who has severe Asperger's and I spent his whole school life here in Australia fighting the school system to get him a. Education. I could talk for days about all the bad experiences we had. It was all worth it though. You guys are doing a great job. With Abbie. Thank you for showing the world what it's really like to have a child on the spectrum
Haha people are liking this comment and I just realised my fat fingers caused a heap of Typos now I look like the uneducated one
I know exactly how you feel being let down with the education system, It’s happened to my family also, It’s horrible, But like you we have came out the others side stronger and knowing our children are receiving the help they need and deserve.
Oh, and Priscilla is 100% right on the "all in your mind" concerning the salad, and I can prove it: I dislike the taste of a homemade salad that I have made but when my honey makes it using the same ingredients it tastes great. Can't explain it. Except love, I guess.
I have a 17 year old severely autistic brother who is also nonverbal. I’m almost 20 years old and have been watching your channel for months. I can’t help but to be so happy. Because you understand what my family goes through. Isaiah understands what i go through as an older sibling with a younger sibling of autism. I’m so grateful to know you are vocal and spreading awareness. You are an amazing family. Words can never describe how much this means to me and my family. Thank you so so so much. ❤️❤️
Right when you mentioned doing a podcast my heart started racing! I would watch your podcast on repeat!! Please do it! I listen to podcasts in my car 24/7. I would love it!
WE* would love it!!
I would love listening to there podcasts and be notified of when they come out with a new one comes out 😁
I listen to podcasts to help me fall asleep at night. I have no idea why, but talking knocks me right out no matter what the subject is. I tried music but for some reason that made me anxious.
middleC17 I get too into the beat with the music and can’t sleep. But I can’t do quiet either. And the TV gets me invested too. Podcasts knock me out. Curious by Josh Peck is a great one for me. His voice soothes me!
Ugh, my son had a teacher who was a pathological liar last year. A nightmare. I cannot even begin to imagine how much harder that would have been if my son couldn't verbalize what was going on.
I’m so sorry for the experience you had in public school. As a sibling and teacher, that breaks my heart, but I also understand the struggle. I’m so thankful you accessed your due process rights and found the right place for your girl and.family.
Yay, congrats on 4 years at JSA Abbie! ❤️
You’ve grown so much and you’re going to keep flourishing. I hope you have many more happy years there to come. Xx
Thankfully you advocated for her! I work with adults with Autism who didn't have appropriate education and my crew and I have taught them so much. The school often just lets the students sleep so they aren't causing problems. So great to see Abigail come so far!
Thank goodness you were able to get Abby out of public school and into an environment she can learn in! As we've all seen she fully capable of learning and much more! I have severe- profound hearing impediments in both ears and although hearing aids help me tremendously I understand very little without the help of captions. As valuable as podcasts from you would be, I can't really listen to them. I've done animal rescue for years and many pet health issues are diet related regardless of whether they are premium pet diets or not. Consistency wise most dry dog foods provide the nutrients most dogs need, just as Cinnamon Toast Crunch provides the necessary nutrients Abby needs for breakfast. With the keto diet you guys are on Maverick may benefit from eating dinner with you and over time it might help prevent hot spot flares. If it is something you want to try, don't change his current diet. Just offer him a toddler size portion of whatever you are having veggies and all. You may need to chop the veggies up so he doesn't just pick out the meat. The "harmful" table scraps stems from people giving their fatty high carb low nutrient leftovers to the dog while clearing the table, which is never recommended. I must applaud you for using a soft neck doughnut instead of a traditional plastic cone! Thanks again for a wonderful video!
How could they think that your smart, sassy little girl was unteachable? It just goes to show how much they know.
Well done to the two of you for fighting for Abbie’s right to a proper education. It’s not every family that could do what you two have done so congratulations to you both for making sure she has the resources to learn as much as she possibly can.
Happy 4th anniversary of good education.
This video broke my heart to hear all this I’m glad she has the help she needs and good parents that fought for her !!
Thanks for sharing this wonderful anniversary with us. I’m so glad that Abbie is able to progress and learn at JSA and that your family is in a good place. I’m all for a podcast!!!! I love to listen on the way to work!
"Cow on top of salad" that is hilarious. Your experience with the school sounds horrifying. My daughter was diagnosed as autistic just recently, what we just considered a speech delay after a traumatic event was apparently much more than we thought. She doesn't have any learning disabilities but I get so much out of watching your channel and just seeing how you handle different situations. Thank you for all the positivity you bring !
I’ve just became a kindergarten teacher and hearing that a teacher would claim a child is unteachable is truly upsetting. Every child is capable of learning somehow...you adapt that curriculum to suit that child’s needs.
I love your family by the way, everyone makes my heart happy😁💕
I am so sorry your family and Abbie specifically had to deal with such an awful public school experience. As a college student studying Early Childhood Education, I hurt for you. I'm not going into Special Education specifically but I'll likely get some special kiddos in my room with inclusion. Your family has shown and taught me so much. :)
Abbie is such a sweet soul and I hate to picture her and you and such an awful situation.
I'm glad you found such a good place for her!
Keep on jamming, Abbie!
I understand this all to well. My son has adhd, ocd, and impulse control issues. He’s 14 now and almost at mainstream classroom level.
However, when he was younger he didn’t make progress due to having a new special ed teacher every year. They’d say they were staying and then decide to leave half way through and stop caring.
My so was able to leave school and come home without anyone noticing. I had to call the school and ask why he was allowed to leave. They hadn’t even realized.
He’s come so far in the last 2 years with teachers that care about him and his progress.
I’m glad Abbie now has teachers that care about her and her education. Every child deserves it.
DJ Abigail 😍😍😍 happy 4th school year Anniversary❣absolutely would listen to your podcasts😁
You guys remind me so much of my parents, which is the highest complement I can pay. You prove every day that good parenting is active, not passive, and sometimes means you have to fight for your kid. When I become a father someday, you will be among to examples I look to. Thank you for that.
My twin sis and I were abused in public school in combined regular ed and special ed class, my parents fought for us. Public schools need more program for special education students, my twin and I had to go to private school for my learning disability since the public school did not have the right program for us. The private school was worth it since we are in college with regular ed students since the skills taught us in the school we use in college.
Kids deserve a chance & a life doesn't matter of their disability
I absolutely adore Isaiah! He has the sweetest personality and is a great brother!
Growing up I had problems with the public school in high school. Special education was playing nasty. My family fought back for the right education for my needs. The school finally gave in and let me take the classes that I wanted to take.
Thank God you're such aware parents. You did the right thing
I have Cerebral Palsy, and I grew up in public school. My mother had to fight constantly to get me what I needed, and we had lots of ups and downs, and it's because of my experiences that I have reservations about placing my kids in public school when they're born and come to the right age. They don't even exist yet, and it seriously terrifies me thinking of putting them in public. I am so so happy you've found JSA!
Omigosh I never put two & two together, I remember the news coverage about y’alls fight and the FB page “Big Fight for a Little Girl”.....I also remember being thoroughly disgusted with the school board!!!
I just don’t understand how someone can dislike their videos. They bring so much joy and awareness to the community
My husband and I had to take our son out of a situation at the Public School level that was unsafe and non productive for him. I found the perfect inclusion school. I even left me former employer and became a teacher at his school. It is such a load off my back to know he is in the same building and I can monitor him.
Hey so I found you guys on facebook and lately I've been watching your older videos, my brother has autism and I wish I would've found you earlier because your blog is so helpful! Abigail has grown so many skills and it inspires me to become a better teacher than my brother has ever had. I honestly dont know if you'll see this but I love your family how hard you all work together with Abigail.
You standing up for your daughter great job
I’m so sorry that you, your family, and so many others had to go through that long, difficult, and heart wrenching process to simply receive what should be offered.
The system for these kids sucks all over the world, cus people (gouverments) dont understand their needs
K i live in western europe, our special needs schools dont understand autism. They still its behaviour instead of sensory issues. My comment was about that not about the health care.
In Germany it's the same, the government doesn't know anything.
trust me I know how it feels I've ADHD and a little bit of autism and it is hard very hard for me to make friend's and I do get overwhelmed a lot
It's the money. They don't want to spend on education, especially special ed.
@@FasterFaster196 I know it's so sad and messed up like we didn't ask to be born like that the least they can do is show us some respect
As a teacher at a public school, I am extremely saddened that this happened to Abbie and your family. I am so glad Abbie is now getting the education she deserves. I know I'm just one person, just one teacher, but I personally believe every child is capable of learning and success. It doesn't matter what route you take, everyone can get to where they need to be given the right support and resources; which is what I try my best to provide to my students. Your family is so inspiring to me, and to so many others. Thanks for always being thoughtful, honest, kind, and loving❤️
I was curious about this story. Glad you shared.
I am so glad you could fight the public school for Abby's education ! I will not forget the guidance counselor telling me they didn't think they could handle my child! (Never mind we are related ) ...My reply was , she doesn't need you to handle her, she needs you to teach her.! I had to take her to another school. She went from "f's" to "A's n B's" ! Thank You for helping so many parents!
I'm sure all your rain gets annoying at times, but I'm super envious. It's so dry and smoky in NorCal 😷😫
And YES to a podcast! 🤓
I was a behavior therapist for many years and worked with some amazing people and students. I worked in the public school system for 6 months and I couldn’t do it. I saw things that I could not be a part of. So understaffed, under resources and because of that the school was very negligent and almost falling into the abuse category. It was horrible. I raised many red flags and because of that I was asked to either be quiet or leave. Well I left. But I still think about those kiddos and how I should have done more.