Reflecting on SEND in Education: A Call for Inclusive Opportunities
As I reflect on my high school and college experiences, I wish that Special Education Needs (SEND) programs had been more readily available and recognized. My journey through school was filled with health-related challenges, which significantly impacted my academic performance and overall educational experience. The lack of appropriate support systems during this period left me missing out on crucial learning opportunities and cheating myself out of potential achievements.
The Impact of Health-Related Absences
During my middle and high school years, I missed a considerable amount of school due to health issues, predominantly migraines. Most notably, our school's homework policy required students to attend for two days in order to catch up on missed work. However, the policy became less flexible when students were absent for more than two days. This approach, while seemingly straightforward, was challenging for me. My ability to catch up on missed work was severely limited, especially on days when I was severely ill or experiencing migraines. I was essentially confined to bed rest, with no possibility of studying or engaging in any form of academic activity.
Limited Understanding from Teachers and Fellow Students
Facing limited empathy from both teachers and fellow students, I resorted to relying on external resources, such as Spark Notes and online educational materials. This shortcut allowed me to submit assignments, although they were of lower quality. However, this approach ultimately hindered my academic growth and understanding of the material. Despite the presence of some understanding teachers, the majority of my instructors did not sympathize with my situation. This environment emphasized the need for equitable support and understanding within the educational system.
College and the Missing SEND Support
It wasn't until my final year of college that I truly understood the importance of SEND programs. A medication I was taking had serious side effects, particularly on my memory function, making it difficult for me to retain information. This led me to reduce my class load, which extended my time to graduation. Additionally, my dependency on the medication increased, necessitating further accommodations. My doctor eventually stepped in, advocating for me and helping to make necessary adjustments, such as allowing special exam days and securing free tutoring for my biology classes.
Academic Difficulties and Handicaps
While the accommodations provided were substantial, they did not fully level the playing field. These measures showed that the school was willing to help, but the inherent handicap of memory loss meant that I still lagged behind my peers. This experience highlighted the ongoing need for continuous and comprehensive support for students with SEND needs. Simply having the accommodation is not enough; it is crucial that it genuinely benefits and supports the student in achieving their full potential.
Challenges for Special Needs Students
Looking beyond my personal struggles, I noticed that some students, particularly those with significant cognitive challenges, also faced severe difficulties. For example, a student with Down’s Syndrome was enrolled in my gym class for a prolonged period. Despite her presence, it was astonishing that she managed to obtain a high school diploma while being in different special education classes. This scenario raises questions about the quality and appropriateness of the education provided to these students.
A Call for Reform and Greater Awareness
In conclusion, SEND programs are vital for ensuring that students with special education needs can succeed academically and personally. These programs must be recognized and implemented at the earliest stage of a student's educational journey, not just during college. They should also be more prominently highlighted and celebrated in high school, where the foundations of a student's academic and personal life are laid. By fostering a more inclusive and supportive educational environment, we can ensure that all students, regardless of their abilities, have the opportunity to reach their full potential.