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A.S.K.- ANSWERS FOR SPECIAL KIDS is
an independent, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides
resources and a support network for families of
children with
special needs in Evanston and neighboring communities,
whether they attend District 65, private school or home
school. We work
collaboratively with public and private schools to improve
the educational experience of all students by ensuring
that students with learning disabilities and other special educational
needs
receive the educational experience to which they are
entitled. To achieve this goal, A.S.K builds bridges
with schools
and school
districts, empowers parents to be effective advocates
for their children, raises awareness within the community
regarding learning
disabilities and special education, and makes resources
on these subjects available to the people that need them.
We focus
on helping parents to help their children. At
times we can further this idea by personal service and
advocacy; in some cases, though, the mission can best
be furthered through
mass communication and raising awareness generally among
the various constituent groups: parents, teachers, school
administrators, other students, and community members.
“
It is an established fact that the students most likely
to succeed are the ones who have informed, supportive parents
on their sides. This factor outweighs the quality of school programming
or the severity of the handicap itself in importance. Many studies
have demonstrated that “quality parenting” enables
children to grow into happy, independent citizens even
when health at birth and educational opportunities are notably
poor. Parents
do not need a Ph.D. in psychology or education to guide
their children effectively. Among the aspects of parenting researchers
cite as most valuable are teaching children to make
the most of
their strengths, encouraging them to believe they can
overcome obstacles, helping them set realistic goals, and encouraging
pride
by involving them in responsibilities at home and in the
community. ”
“Learning
Disabilities A to Z ”, Corinee Smith, Ph.D. and Lisa Strick
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