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Posted by Melissa Hincha-Ownby May 17, 2008 |
Parents of children with autism, and other disabilities, that reside in Arizona have been allowed to send their children to private schools by using the state’s school voucher program. These children, who have often failed to have their needs met through the public school system, can attend private schools that specialize in autism without their parents having to absorb the exorbitant fees.
The Arizona Education Association, as well as other Arizona civil rights groups, contested the voucher program as unconstitutional claiming that public schools suffer as a result. Parents of children who attend these specialized schools under the voucher program plan to ask the Arizona Supreme Court to look at the Appellate Court ruling.
Educating children with an autism spectrum disorder can be extremely difficult as what is best for one child may not work for another. Some parents, understanding their child’s unique circumstances, have opted to enroll their child in a school that focuses on educating children with autism. With annual fees running upwards of $20,000 for these private schools, many parents will be unable to pay to keep their children enrolled.
This is a controversial topic and one that has been encountered in states besides Arizona. It is difficult for those without a personal connection to a child with autism to understand the importance of this program to some families. Studies have shown that an appropriate education can lead to extremely positive results as the child grows into young adulthood. If this beneficial program is removed, the future for some of these children may be uncertain.