Special education programs have been mandatory since 1975 when the United States Congress passed the Education for All Handicapped Children Act, (EAHCA).
Since then, we have been able to see the progress in school systems with the education of special needs children. They are getting the attention they require to become productive citizens of the world.
One thing that has also helped the integration of these kids into a school environment is the creation of the Buddies club.
Founded in 1989 by Anthony K. Shiver, this nationwide club has inspired, motivated and helped children with special needs obtain a normal high school, middle school or college experience.
What some people may or may not know is that WS has a program simmilar to this called the Buddies Club.
“By showing up to any of our events. There are no dues or applications. Everyone is welcome,” said teacher Timothy Spicer.
The Buddies Club is designed to let special education students have a normal high school experience with no judgment. Everyone is able to join and participate in the activities.
“We attend four different events at WS. Before an event we typically have a pre-event dinner where we socialize. The purpose of Buddies Club is to offer social opportunities to all students at WS, especially our students with intellectual disabilities,” said Spicer.
The Buddies Club gives opportunities to all types of students of all different age groups, but is mostly geared towards children with intellectual disabilities.
Last year, Special Ed teacher Nicole Novak headed the Buddies Club but this year Spicer and Swain have stepped forward to take the lead role.
By having a program that allows special education students to interact with other students they are able to have role models to look up to and model themselves after.
“Snacks, we play games, we go to Spartan Hall, we go to the sports games,” said senior Morid Mohammad a student who participates in the Buddies club. The Buddies Club creates an environment that nurtures healthy social relationships with in the school setting.
“Buddies Club provides all students which a shared social experience. Memories are made and true friendships are formed,” said Swain.
The Buddies Club meets four times in a school year, and they participate in going to school football games, dances, and other types of school activities. They will also be going to the spring musical where they will have dinner in Spartan Hall.
“Buddies Club members go to sporting events, drama productions, a movie night and the signature event of the year is Buddies Club Prom. It really is special to see students and their parents that may not have a prom experience have one,” said Swain.