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AUDIO-Michael & Christine at Longwood BOE Meeting- Autism

701 views · Published 25 March 2011 · 4:10 · Indexed 5 October 2026

Channel: thrillcats · 2011 · People & Blogs

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Michael, a 6th grader with autism speaks at the Longwood Board of Education meeting on March 24, 2011 about school budget cuts.  There is only audio- as the iPhone was pointed at our feet for most of it.  :)  Also, Michael got a standing ovation from the crowd of about 200-300 people.  It was a beautiful moment- so proud of Michael!

The speech:

CHRISTINE: Thank you for letting me speak tonight. My name is Christine Heeren and I live in Middle Island. I have one child, Michael who is 11 years old. At 2.5 he was dx with mild to moderate autism. At 5 years old, when he entered Ridge Elementary, Michael couldn't sit down at a table and do ABA therapy. He couldn't follow most directions and could say about 20 words- yes, no, up, down, etc. To be honest, for years he was considered among the lowest functioning kids in his class. From kindergarden to 2nd grade Michael was in a contained class with 6 kids and 6 adults. In addition he was provided speech therapy, occupational therapy and a psychologist.

Why did the Longwood School District spend all that time and money trying to help Michael? My guess is because they knew the earlier children with autism get services, the better. And sometimes, when you invest in a young child, as they get older- they need LESS services. And maybe, one day even graduate, go to college and be productive members of society. Isn't that what we wish for every child- autism or not?

If you had asked me 5 years ago "is your son going to college one day?" I probably would have first laughed, than sarcastically said "ya right". If you ask me that same question today- do you know what I would say? "Ask Michael yourself." The Longwood School District has given my son support, opportunity, caring teachers, amazing consultants and understanding classmates. The district has invested in my child and that investment is paying off. I would like to introduce to you my son, Michael Heeren, who can now speak for himself.

MICHAEL: Hello. My name is Michael and I am a 6th grade student at Longwood Middle School. I would like to say thank you to the Board of Education for providing the staff & services I've needed over the last six years. I went from a class with 6 kids to a class with 27 kids. I'm doing work on grade level, made the honor roll a few times, play violin in the orchestra and recently performed in the Drama Club performance of Aladdin. I plan to graduate High School on time and go to college. All of this would not be possible for me if the Longwood school district cut special education services when I was younger. Please give ALL students with autism the support and help they need to do better. Thank you!

CHRISTINE: In conclusion, I know this is not a position you all want to be in. No one wants to fire teachers or cut services. It's just a horrible situation all around. But, when you are making your decisions, please keep in mind my son. He is wonderful example of how investing money in a child's education can not only save the district money in the future, but open up a world of possibility for that student. You have a great program here at Longwood and I honestly think that if you cut staff like: teachers, assistants, aides & psychologists- years from now those special education students will need MORE help & cost the district more in the long run. Not only is it law and the right thing to do- it makes common sense. Thank you.

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