My
experience in Jonson’s School brought to light many of the issues that plague
our school systems’. The purpose of the
Lighthouse Program is to provide a place for students to learn and grow socially
in a controlled environment and essentially keep them on the right track. My purpose through the Kennedy Center was to
focus working with those students who have or are at risk for autism. Though they are in the same classroom, to
promote integration and communication among them, they require a much different
approach to facilitate their learning abilities than the rest of the children
in the classroom. They require diligence
and perseverance, if you give up on them, they give up, but if you push them,
despite the frustration they express, it becomes evident their desire and drive
to learn the material more fully. It is
complex, because our society places a stigma on these children naturally, kids
from Bridgeport that are exposed to things at early ages and experience
situations at earlier ages than most would expect. However, stepping into that classroom with
those notions creates an underlying hesitance, these barriers need to be broken
down, our hearts opened, and then the student sees the beauty in learning. Though they are young, they get it, they
understand when they are being looked down upon, so the key is to raise them
up, help raise their standards and they will show and express their own desire
to learn, and not only desire, they will understand the purpose. It is our responsibility to guide and help
them find that purpose, help those who cannot help themselves essentially.
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