Father learns LHS ‘isn’t broken’ while aide for daughter
To the editor:
I hear from time to time about the problems at Lawrence High School and would like to offer the following from personal observations during the 2004-2005 school year.
I had the privilege of being an aide for my daughter, Caryn, during a difficult time for several weeks during her senior year. She was diagnosed the prior year with cranial/spinal cancer and was forced to use a wheelchair due to progression of the disease and chemotherapy, which left her weak.
When we contacted the school, there were several meetings to address her condition and to make available services she might require. She would need an aide to help her with notes because of compromised vision, small motor skills and general weakness. Needless to say, this wasn’t going to happen overnight, so we asked if I could assist Caryn until a qualified aide could be found. Permission was granted, but we were concerned as to how the students, teachers and staff would react. I am happy to say that Caryn and I were accepted immediately and without hesitation. To this day I’m surprised we didn’t run many people down with Caryn’s wheelchair. Anytime we would get within 100 feet of a door, we would find it already opened by a smiling student saying "hello." The teachers taught, not to the tests, but in preparation for college. The students were encouraged to find answers and ask questions. I was overwhelmed by the level and complexity of the classes, as well as the amount of homework; it wasn’t like that when I was in high school.
When Beth Wheeler asked to be Caryn’s aide I had mixed feelings. Beth was the perfect person for the job but it meant that I would not be able to continue attending LHS. Yes, it was a privilege and changed my families’ perspective on what was going on and being taught at the high school.
What is going on? A lot of learning, compassion and unity from the principal and everyone involved. I challenge anyone who believes that these kids aren’t being taught or learning to spend a week in the school. The students respected the teachers and there were few disciplinary actions required. The teachers made themselves available to all students and I was impressed with the hours they spent at school.
Lawrence High School isn’t broken, as it’s been suggested it’s a compassionate, caring and challenging place where people learn the important lesson of thinking on their own.
Curt Wilson
Nassau Drive

