Donald Beattie of Winthrop, ME Matt, it takes a lot of research and writing skills to put a story together such as this one. Congratulations again on keeping your eye on special needs. I am working on a chapter to be called, Beyond Inclusion. Your story helps with that chapter. Thanks. Don Beattie in Winthrop, ME.report abuse

TaborFan of Winthrop, ME I have worked in Special Education for many years, as a "One On One Aid" as mentioned earlier. Any idea what I made for the school year? Roughly $12,000 a year, You wanna know what they spend the money on? $500.00 Potty chairs, $20.00 Sippy Cups, Swings similar to the "Jolly Jumper" children had in the 70's that cost thousands of dollars, $2000.00 chnaging tables that have to be special ordered hundreds apon thousands of dollars a year spent on WAY over priced stuff, for the most part the "Aids" are paid only a dollar or two over minimum wage, the rest is mostly fluff!
Having had children, I can tell you there are many many tests you can have done while pregnant that can diagnose a large majority of the mental and physical defects, I feel VERY strongly that everyone should be REQUIRED to have those tests, should it show that there is even a chance that your child will be a permament drain on society you should be required to either terminate the pregnancy OR sign a waiver, stating that you and you alone will provide all financial needs for the child FOREVER!report abuse

Shelley O'Connor of Wells, ME Hey Mr Kelley-
I'll bet you there's less money spent on special needs kids than on programs to keep the elderly in nursing homes. So, when you reach the end of your useful working life, we'll get a gunny sack for you too.report abuse