Autism Family Sues School District

Easily the hardest year and a half of our lives. In the end it was all worth it but I can't say I recommend it. You're case has to be rock solid and wins in favor of the student and family are very rare. We are proud that our case is a landmark for others in a similar fight and that we can help others through it.
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[@rebekahearly1144]

Getting your child an education should not have to cost parents their relationship and their sanity! I’m so glad your fight paid off as much as it did. This video was such a gracious, matter of fact description of something that must have been horrific to walk through.

[@DarcysMixedMedia]

I'm so glad Abbie has parents who fight for her. She has proved them wrong again and again. Thank you for sharing your story.

[@camillepapon2180]

As a teacher, I was so confused about the story with the playdoh- every time you said, “the teacher kept telling the para that Abbie was putting it in her mouth, but the para didn’t do anything.” I kept yelling at my screen, “but why didn’t the TEACHER just go over and stop Abbie?!” And then you said that the teacher was doing it intentionally so she could prove that she needed more help… my heart broke for the kids, for the teacher, and most of all for Abbie.

[@taylorpryor5171]

I’m a teacher in a rural school in Oklahoma (we’re like 48th education) and I often cry on my drive home because our hands are so tied and I know I’m not giving my kids everything they need. We need money, training, and support.

[@pawsitivelyspeaking6547]

Back in 70's & 80's my special teachers was rarely in the class. We ran it & did what we wanted. I hope this has at least changed here in Oklahoma! I live in rural West Central Oklahoma!!

[@lessehead]

I taught in inner city Philly right after college, and the kids were so off the wall crazy and uncontrollable that I threw up every morning before work. I never had one minute’s training in behavior management and administration had no idea what to do. It was a circus.

[@ritamariekelley4077]

When I last taught SPED, I would cry as soon as I got into my car out of overwhelming frustration. I wasn't allowed to give those kids what I felt they needed.

[@ritamariekelley4077]

@@pawsitivelyspeaking6547 You were never given the help and support you needed. what a horrible experience.

[@Ksudana29]

Same for teachers in my rural kansas community

[@callieb4141]

As a special educator myself I can attest that it is often a lack of resources and training on a district level that causes these situations of neglect. I worked in a similar classroom and actively had to fight with my district to gain adequate training and was even denied it many times. I ultimately left the district because I didn’t want this situation to happen to my students. So proud of you both.

[@Thinkin_inkan]

Hearing this story breaks my heart. All of those opportunities to not only keep your child safe but to also engage her and enrich her environment….just missed. Completely neglected. I’m so proud of you both for being the awesome parents you are. I’m grateful for Abigail that she has a team working for her best interest now.

[@junomacguff3442]

This is horrific. You had every right to sue. My respect for you just went up x1,000.

[@candyzamarripa9015]

I'm just happy Abbie goes to a better school and is learning more.

[@LBanks-gy6kb]

As a teaching assistant who works with children who have ASD and other additional needs, I am so sorry that your child wasn’t safe in school- somewhere that is supposed to be a very safe and inclusive place for EVERY children. I hope with you speaking out and unfortunately having to go to court no other child has to go through this. I am also so glad Abbey is safe and thriving in school now!

[@ediescifres6324]

As a Special Education teacher I am just appalled at some of the ways Abbie and frankly you were treated by the School District. Congratulations on being such fighters for Abbie!

[@nerdgeekcosplay909]

I’m close to getting my special education bachelors I’ve wanted this career since I was 15 ( which was back in 2015 ) . Any advice you wish to share with me? How can I become the best teacher I can be for my kids? What other certifications do you recommend I obtain?

[@JUDYDAK]

I wish more parents like you were out there. I used to work at an elementary school as a classroom aide(not in special education) and to many times people were just happy to rid themselves of their child and they didn't really care what happened to them. So many of the things you spoke about happened and I ended up leaving because of the disrespect from other colleagues and admin. I love the way you will fight for your kids and want what you know they deserve. And yes, I cried watching you speak of this!

[@jmackay03]

I am listening from Montreal, Canada and I can’t believe how similar the issues are. We have 5 private SpEd schools in a 6 mile span. Why? Because our public school system is failing miserably. Keep doing what you do. As an educator, I cannot thank you enough for these videos.

[@danarzechula3769]

We had the same thing with falsified data about my son making progress. We had independent testing done with people who would show up to due process hearings. So disgusting. Right now the PT counts my son walking down the hallway to the therapy room as therapy minutes. These people know they are defrauding disabled children they need to be held accountable.

[@kristinb3093]

So heartbreaking. Hearing when she was just left alone at her desk facing the wall. Its amazing how far she's come thanks to the fight you guys put up for her, & the undying love you have for her. You guys are so awesome. Thank you for sharing.

[@glitch._]

I have so much respect for these parents for how hard they fight for their girl. This is what true parenting is.

[@gaycorrell9732]

As a retired Special Education teacher, I commend you for your tenacity in doing what’s best for your daughter. So many times it’s an “us vs. them” when it should be a team effort. Sadly, what it boils down to is money/funding and often administrators who aren’t willing to go the extra mile for students with special needs, because quite frankly they don’t have a clue and aren’t willing to take that risk to provide services that are way outside the box of typical education. There are wonderful teachers whose hands are tied when it comes to opening up new possibilities.

[@Sammy-cm9ce]

They didn't seem like wonderful teachers at all.

[@np100]

They are not all wonderful teachers. We had one that sat all day reading magazines while volunteer parents tried to do circle times and help all the children. No para professionals at all.

[@danarzechula3769]

Plenty of resources taken from us. The administrators line their pockets and only care about their pension funds. The districts would rather pay lawyers to keep the kids from getting what they need.

[@amyrivers4093]

She wasn't saying that Abby's teachers were wonderful but that there are a lot of wonderful special education teachers.

[@LoriWoods-pn7fr]

As a mom who also had a child with a learning disability I understand what you went through. We went through it in one of the schools my daughter was in. Lucky for all of us, when she was fairly young I met the love of my life and it saved my daughter as well. We moved to a different district who was wonderful with her.

[@xHollyDaysx]

Wow perfect timing. I’m in a masters level course right now on special education law, and we’re discussing case law. This sounds like you had quite the case. It’s amazing families like you guys who have made such an impact on special education and changing the laws (through the court system) to create safer more equitable learning environments for children with disabilities.

[@puffin463]

The best words: "create, safer, equitable!"

[@michelletauson9436]

This just makes me sick. Thank goodness she has you both to advocate. Unfortunately many students with challenges do not. Our healthcare system and public school system need a major overhaul.

[@kareylocke205]

This message is for Abbie… you deserve a round of applause! You have been working so hard. I am so proud of you! You are a strong teenager and I believe you can make a difference… I love you and your family. ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@beancake35]

As an educator, it hurts my heart that Abbie and y'all had to go through this. We need more parents in this world who will fight for their children as much as you guys have.

[@kaylaallen555]

Sad thing is it happens all the time I was pushed to the back I was not able to get my high school diploma because of my disability education now I draw ssi but I want to walk in they never worked with me on how to work or held a job

[@simply852]

I can not imagine what you went through. I live in Canada, PEI, and have a special needs sibling who has gone through the public school system until the age of 18, and is now in a day program for intellectual disabled individuals, which is staffed with individuals who have completed a college program to qualify for this position. This program is government funded, a non profit organization. Abbie is very fortunate to have parents who fight for what is best and safest for her. Hats off to you both.

[@AS-cc8mp]

My mom passed away on February 5th 2020. She was an education assistant (EA). She worked with children with special needs and she was really incredible at it. I’m pretty sure her “specialty” was autism. I really wish I could show her your videos, she would have loved them and I know she would have been excited to learn more about how to help. Thanks for giving me an outlet to feel closer to her. I missed hearing all the lovely stories she had about the kids she worked with, it feels like I am able to experience some of that again. ❤

[@mamakitten220]

Right now I'm fighting my sons school to get him what he needs wish me luck thankfully I'm walking into a meeting with 3 people on our side

[@jamparker969]

Good luck!

[@vinceghio]

I have autism I would find a special education attorney for your son just in case

[@evansherman2914]

I tree

[@madisonhendershot411]

This makes me stomach hurt. I am a kindergarten special education teacher and I’m disgusted with what Abby and your family had to go through. Bless you for protecting your baby girl!!!!

[@relax2dream164]

I’m impressed at the lengths you have gone to make sure Abby got her education! What a fight! I’ve heard many stories of special needs kids spending the day laying on a bean bag chair as their education due to lack of resources and trained staff. Breaks my heart. 💔

[@sallythibodeaux7992]

I’m so sorry your family had to go through that. Thank God for parents like you that only want what’s best for their child. Your children are truly blessed.

[@TheVintageBumbleBee]

It's hard to see our children go thru such B.S. ...but our past makes us who we are and Abby is no different. She's amazing.

[@krystalmcguffie8881]

You said that perfectly 🥰

[@saleenstringfellow9148]

It’s wild the techniques they use in court to corner you with technicalities. When Abbi ran into that retention pond and Pracilla decided to wait for Asa to arrive, y’all both knew chasing after Abbie is like a game to her, but y’all did had the comfort of knowing she could swim. Parents know their kids and I think y’all made the right decision in handling that situation. Im so proud of you all

[@markpatterson3060]

Thanks for sharing your story and being realistic about the toll it takes to fight the system. I work in this area in Scotland, UK and there are still (unfortunately) many parallels to the challenges you guys faced for many families trying to get their children the support they need.

[@kieram.6186]

Being someone with autism, this enraged me. So glad you continued to fight to get Abbie where she is now. Sadly, this happens in a lot of public schools, including my old one before I switched online. My teachers would just disregard my accommodations, which is illegal. :/

[@brandielyn21]

So I am adopted I came to live with my parents when I was turning 4. Child Focus specialists thought I was mentally challenged due to the lack of understanding I had at that age. When I was in kindergarten a psychologist from child focus had to come diagnose me because I was off the walls. It turns out I was diagnosed with ADHD so then the game of which medication to put me on occurred. But thankfully my parents through my diagnosis was able to get me an IEP and specialized care. But it wasn’t until high school that I really excelled. I went from a large public school to a small private high school that was able to follow my IEP. I’m now a 32 year college graduate working in my career field. I still struggle with both my ADHD and bipolar diagnoses but I’ve come a long way. I will say it is thanks to parents like you Asa and Cilia and like mine that people like Abbie and like me can succeed and grow so thank you.

[@teresamariner4238]

My grandson has mild ADHD, no meds, he currently controls it with structured physical activity, like Tae Kwon Do. It helps calm him so he can concentrate better and stay on task. It works off his nervous energy. I've also noticed as he matures his grades improve. He attended a small, Christian elementary school with one on one education so he excelled. Then junior high was a large school and he kind of got lost in the shuffle. Now in high school he attends a Charter high school and has help as needed. His teachers work with him to ensure his assignments are understood, completed and turned in. He had difficulties in his first two years but now, with his maturity and a diagnosis (end of his freshman year) he is excelling, except for this past year of on line learning. You give me hope. My grandson's currently looking into trade schools instead of college. He enjoys working with his hands. Thank you for your comment, and I pray God's continued rich blessings for you.

[@LoveOnTheInsidex3]

@@teresamariner4238 I feel so bad for kids like him that to deal with online school this year

[@Shelbsalexis]

I always noticed my son was a lot more hyper and kind of all over the place when he was younger but it wasn’t until he started kindergarten that it really because a problem with his ability to sit still and focus and learn. His teachers brought it to my attention and during this time (2019-2020) Covid just began and schools shut down. Myself, and his teachers decided it was best for him to repeat kindergarten. And during last school year I was able to get him a psychologist and a therapist and he was diagnosed with ADHD. From that point on, it was tough and scary but I was able to get him a bunch of different tests done through the school and eventually meet with the special education school board. And they accepted my request and I was able to get him into special education with an IEP. After 2 years in kindergarten, he’s now in first grade and although he’s still a bit behind (Schools being closed because of Covid didn’t help any) BUT he’s doing amazing and 10x better with more 1 on 1 help from SE teachers. My son is 7, and yes he is on medication which has helped and worked wonders for him. I know that’s a bit controversial but it’s what we decided. You sharing your story reminds me alot of my son, and I only pray he can be successful in school & beyond. Which I know he will be ♥️ thank you for sharing!

[@teresamariner4238]

@@LoveOnTheInsidex3 my grandson's mother is a special ed. teacher and thought he was borderline. 7th and 8th grade in an accelerated school showed us the issues he was having. He barely made it through. Now he's figuring it out and with the help of a counselor to guide him and help him see what he's missing, he is excelling. Unfortunately, his Dad, my son, died unexpectedly on Oct 20, only 49. It remains to be seen how it impacts my grandson and his grades. He tends to bottle his feelings up. Prayers are appreciated for us all. His Mom has students that are basically homeless, locked out of the house because Mom has "company". There are several students that get weekend backpacks filled with food for the student to eat because of food insecurities st home. Its so sad what these students have to go through.

[@teresamariner4238]

@@Shelbsalexis my grandson was always hyper and distracted if the subject or discussion was not interesting to him. In elementary school he attended a small, Christian school with small classes and individualized teaching where he excelled. His perpetual motion was helped by Tae Kwon Do classes which helped him development better control over his body. He often practiced with a friend during recess, or they played soccer, which he enjoyed. Junior high and his first year and a half of high school was another story. Finally he was diagnosed as ADHD in the second quarter of high school and it has been a blessing. He attends regular classes, but his teachers understand his issues and allow him extra time to complete assignments if he doesn't understand, especially in advanced math and science. I found in elementary that he is a kinesthetic learner. He uses rhythm and movement to help himself learn and memorize. In his junior high year of high school he is finally back to earning A's and B's, but junior high and his first year and a half of high school were a train wreck. His Mom enrolled him in an advanced placement school for junior high. He felt lost and his grades showed it, from A's to D's. They went too fast for him and didn't explain things well. You were just supposed to figure it out on your own. He needed visual explanations and a more clear presentation. As an example, they used a high school level Spanish book, and expected the students to complete the entire book in one semester when it is designed to complete in one year. They used the same text in his first year of high school and he did well. He is an intelligent and creative person, enjoying music (learned saxophone and guitar at the same time) and he excels in film class. Both classes channel his creative talent. He's in third year Spanish and doing well. Science and Math are more difficult for him. Fortunately, they use testing more to see who understood and who didn't, instead of weighted grades pulling down the grade average. My grandson has decided to go to a trade school after high school rather than college. He just has to decide what grade. Blessings to you and yourbeautiful child. Hopefully you can see that with the correct schools, classes, and teachers, your child can excell and excel with school, and life and future careers. Gods blessings on you both.

[@cheyennecarleton5491]

I was a one-on-one special education para for two years and I loved it! Thank you for fighting for her!

[@CannibalChxrry]

As a former para for special needs kiddos, it's not just her school. I was treated as a teacher's aide and lunch janitor, running copies, and if I told them that I was there for one specific student I'd get push back and told I'm being paid to be in that class so I need to help the class. It was so bad that I had to quit, and leave my kiddo that I had currently worked so hard to help because at that point I was teaching the class FOR the teacher. I got the board involved, was in court as a witness, and eventually that teacher was removed because I wasn't the first. I'm so sorry this has happened and that Abby and you guys have had such a bad time.

[@analiza8263]

When you mentioned that Abbie was facing a concrete wall my eyes right away started to water. Extremely heartbreaking. I am so glad you guys took action. I have been a follower for so long I feel like you guys are MY family, you are from a distance. I love you all.

[@jackieperez1274]

It heart breaking that you had to go thru this. I'm glad that Abbie is in a better school and had advanced so much. I had to go thru obstacles to get my daughter in a Center School and her aggression has decreased and she's learning so much.

[@theransom2008]

My daughter had a great case manager at school who set us up to us use the right words to get what we needed for our daughter. It was often like a cherade's game but she did her best with out getting herself in trouble.

[@juliemariariley3212]

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being the amazing parents and advocates that you are for Abbie. My blood boils when I think of what you have been through- it is not fair. I have so much respect for y'all for using your personal struggles to help pave the way for others. Strength. Courage. Resilience. Maas Family 🌻

[@tylerpennells8672]

As a graduate of Child and youth care and now a special education teacher at a local school i send you love and applause a lot of things you have mentioned i have seen i have learned to fight the systems and stand up for each student i work with within my board some issues are funding for communication devices and proper updated training with staff i have had a IEP through out my school years. And now recently my one to one has gotten his IEP i hope it will be followed i have always had a growth strength based mindset and work from where my students are at. I have always found it important to work along with your fellow staff always and keep constant communication with parents. Love you all and thanks for continuing to spread the knowledge and love you have for Abbie 💙💙

[@bertiehardison2689]

My niece has SMA and is 100% wheelchair bound. She has an aide that helps her with all her needs during the school day. If her aide calls out sick or has to leave early, my niece either has to miss school or is made to leave early. The school does not provide a substitute aide if her aide is out. She has missed major events due to the aide not being available. Even though she is IEP the school drops the ball where she is concerned. When questioned they get the same answer, funding.

[@taylorbrenneman8437]

Thank you for fighting for your child. It’s parents like you that help us change these things to make them better for our special kiddos!

[@ashleycapistrant3117]

Wow I never realized how lucky We are to live in the district that we do! My son has so much offered to him! They go above and beyond for our family and other families as well! During covid they even had special programs for our special needs kids! Thank you for sharing it makes me realize when we move it is something we seriously need to look into! Not only are they great with his IEP but I feel like I have a voice in my sons education!

[@maryolmstead3183]

This had to be so hard for you to relive. I have the utmost respect for you, first of all, to go through this in real time, then to go through it again for educational and community service reasons. Thank you for sharing your hard earned wisdom with us.

[@lovelycaitie89]

I am so glad that you fought that hard for Abbie. There are so many parents who are not able to or won't. As a classroom teacher, so many things are out of my hands. A lack of resources and funding are such a huge thing. The school leadership and the county did you very wrong in so many ways. Those falsified documents are ABHORRENT. That makes me so angry as an educator and a decent human being.

[@pawsitivelyspeaking6547]

I wish I had parents like you I was in special education I had no one to fight for me my parents were too busy with their own lives. Keep up your great work you are awesome parents and keep fighting for Abby! We need more parents like you! Abby is so blessed to have parents like you! I need to shut up now cuz I'm starting to cry! Love you all from your number one fan in Oklahoma

[@rosiec1974]

I just wanted to hug you both!!! Sending you Virtual Hugs from Australia. Just think that your court case CHANGED so much for other families also.

[@brunettewrhs2012]

As someone who is about to graduate as a teacher, I appreciate you sharing this story so other teacher/future teachers can learn from it.

[@ScarletBrimstone]

I can relate to you guys. I wish I could share my daughter's story with you in its entirety, but it was so hard to get her diagnosed. My mother in law helped me in finding a doctor who would even look at her. Thanks for sharing your experiences❤️

[@cassievallarta2653]

I dealt with negligent staff and refusal to follow IEP of my daughter in preschool at the local public school. In two weeks she had emotionally regressed and showed signs of significant distress. We realized we could fight the man or spare her the grief. She hasn't forgotten her weeks of public school, and recently told me she used to hide in the closet. Pulling her out to homeschool was the best decision we ever could have made! Six years later she's a wonderful, smart, loving, and creative girl. I'm so grateful to have the skills, expertise, and freedom to teach her at home.

[@kathfinch9453]

I’ve been watching you for years, and never heard the full details of how you fought for your girl. Thank you for sharing your experience.

[@pamsmplthing]

Such a inspiring story so glad you went after what you knew was right and didn't let the system walk all over you like so many families with disabled children. You are a true inspiration to all families to stand up for what's right and the truth will prevail. Not always a easy walk but you made it with a great outcome. Love your family and what you stand for.😘

[@rain-wanders]

Wow, this really hit home as a teacher. I got my education in Special Education, and I was working on getting my ASD license because that was where my passion was, but when I had originally changed majors to SPED, they didn't have the ASD license, so long story short, I got general SPED certified and then was going back for ASD. In that 3 years that I took a break from going to college and starting back up, I worked at 2 different schools in a SPED classroom. After those 3 years I decided to quit education all-together, NOT because I didn't love the students and want to help them but just because the resources were so so lacking. There was no support from administration, not enough funding, the curriculum we were forced to "teach" did NOT fit the needs of the students. It was maddening being forced to focus on trying to teach a student like Abbie MATH skills.. yes MATH skills... when what those students needed were LIFE skills. So I was forced to try to push a curriculum that was 100% irrelevant to my students, and I didn't get to actually help with anything that actually mattered to them. I couldn't take it anymore.

[@mammaneedsabreak17]

This is my story as well. I taught SpEd for 12 years and finally quit for the same reasons. I was teaching middle school aged kids ancient civilizations, pre-algebra, and science topics to kids with Autism, Mental Retardation, etc. It was absolutely infuriating.

[@connieheitz8982]

So sorry you both had to go through that. It's sad and upsetting that those in top positions can't see the forest for the trees.

[@barbaraflowers7628]

I'm sorry to here that.

[@tammy707]

I hear this a lot

[@rmjames83]

I’m so sorry you both went through this, & were lost to “the system”-when it seems you both were exactly what “the system” needed!! It’s so saddening to hear. Dedicated teachers that would have made/are brilliant teachers, not being able to do what they do best, AND what they had dedicated their careers to doing…teaching beautiful special needs kids like Abbie. It makes me think that the problem is more widespread than what people believe, or would like to think.

[@amymartin6241]

That was amazing, frustrating, heartbreaking, infuriating but beautiful all in one blog. Thanks for paving the way for those of us who came after.

[@DenaeTew]

You guys are amazing. Your love and support for each other and your children is so refreshing to see. So glad Abbie has you amazing parents as her own. I'm so proud of you two.

[@princessdomi]

What a crazy journey! What amazing parents you both are! ❤️

[@princessamber292]

Abbie couldn’t have been blessed with better parents. You two are rockstars. She is where she is because she has you two in her corner. Much love to your family.

[@saralorenze1781]

Thank you so much for sitting down and sharing your story. You guys went above and beyond as you always do for your daughter and being able to share this I hope has inspired others to fight for their children’s education the way you guys have.

[@countrygirl9009]

Thank you so much for making this video. I’m so glad it worked out for you guys as a family. You are giving courage and hope to others by sharing your journey and we are so very grateful. ❤️

[@marlon1400]

Thank you so much for sharing this! And I'm so glad abbie is getting the help she needs you guys are an absolute inspiration and great resource!

[@lizconnolly2603]

Best parents ever! So cool to see your hard work pay off in such a huge way! Abbie is thriving and continues to inspire so many, and so do you guys! Isaiah too! You went through such a difficult and trying time to get here! So excited to see Abbie continue to learn and grow! You guys are AMAZING!

[@suemick8709]

What a battle! You two are amazing! Abbie is blessed to have you as parents.

[@Nuggett-irl]

You all are such great advocates! I’m so sorry you had to go through all this, but you’ve set a precedent that will help other students receive the education they deserve 💕

[@kathybudka726]

Thank you so much for fighting so hard for your daughter. I am disabled and have had many iep meetings and they can be very hard. I can’t Imagine going to court. Thank you for all your hard work on behalf of all disabled children and adults. Love you guys ❤️

[@morganforrest6873]

I love being able to hear Abbie’s wind chimes in the background!! You guys are seriously everything I aspire to be for my family.

[@bridgetmcdaniel4004]

This story breaks my heart. As a former Florida ESE teacher I am painfully aware of the frustrating limitations Public schools are forced to work with every day. You are telling the truth about so many situations which place kids like Abbie at risk in classrooms every day. Sometimes the balancing act between what each ESE child deserves and needs, weighs against what the minimum supervision and care needs of the whole school are at any given time. The situations you described are unforgivable. Unfortunately they exist every day for kids whose parents do not have the resources, time, energy and motivation that you both possess. There are phenomenal ESE teachers in public schools throughout the state. But there are, as in all organizations, those who lack skills, stamina, training and sensitivity to the individual needs they are tasked with providing. I am so grateful that you have dedicated your time and talents to educating others, particularly parents, about the unique and sometimes overwhelming needs of people living with exceptionalities. The message I hear you repeating is "your child deserves the best".... and if one thing is not working, demand what else is available and keep working toward the goals. Thank you for being the advocates you are!💗💗

[@katestead1274]

You guys are amazing, what you have been through sounds awful but totally worth it in the end to get Abbie to where she is today, you should be very proud of yourselves ❤

[@carlasilva8155]

You talked on so many things that I’ve been seeing and fighting against: unprepared professionals; an educational systems that instead of helping preparing this kids to more independent adults, just “helps” them to continue dependent; the behind talk of staff; the hypocrisy of inviting parents to visit classes, participate and help improving the system, in reality doesn’t allow them to see how things really are. This is sad! This kids have potential, we just need to see them by who they are and what are capable of doing… and than, believing in them and with the correct work… SURPRISE!

[@jessicas2379]

yes they have potential! A lot of educators don't see it but with the right therapy and education they can break past those barriers and shine!

[@carlasilva8155]

@@jessicas2379 agree 100%

[@HollyWood.8309]

Thank you for sharing your story! Im glad to see Abbie was able to get everything she needed in her new school, and she continues to amaze me with every vlog you share with us. I went through a similar fight for my 12 yr old son but thankfully minus going to court. We eventually switched schools and he now is in a full time "Exceptional children" class that we love! I was disgusted in the lengths his previous school went to, to make sure they didn't "give us what we wanted" which was only for him to be kept safe (which he wasn't) and taught an education. Again, thank you for sharing!!

[@HingWenYi]

I am sorry for you to go through this: history makes the mistake of shaming and bullying people with disabilities like autism. I am very proud of you for setting up this KZbin channel for those with disabilities. One more thing, I have mild-functioning autism. : )

[@ElizabethHernandez-hw6zu]

Finally got to finish watching. WOW!! You all the most amazing parents

[@gulfcoastgirl3735]

This is the most fascinating and informative video You guys have posted. Thank you!

[@junegroves7295]

You guys are truly amazing!! Thank you so much for sharing! I have never had to go nearly that far but I’m a fighter anyway so the school system doesn’t play with me anyway!! But the school my son is in now is Amazing!!💙💙💙 Have a great night everyone!!❤️❤️❤️

[@anacloughly7967]

Thank you for sharing your story.. so many memories surface in my personal experience. Really glad you stuck with it.

[@annedeaton2207]

It breaks my heart that you even had to go through with a lawsuit. We had a lot of issues with a school district not following our sons IEP and did more research than anyone should ever have to do to find him a better school district. Thankfully my in-laws lived in that district so he stayed with his grandparents for the school year and was able to finally get the education he deserves. Abbie and Isaiah are so blessed to have such amazing parents that will stop at nothing when it comes to their kids. ❤

[@Stalemarshmallow]

Thank you so much for teaching us about these things

[@mistyjomay6272]

Yay I've been waiting so long for this video! Thanks you guys! Love you❤❤❤

[@mapuanakupuna3471]

U guys r amazing! If more kids had parents like u, the world would be a better place! Much love to u all!!

[@HottyTotty]

The schools wud definitely benefit

[@HottyTotty]

Or get better for the students

[@deborahgreen1928]

Thank you for sharing this. ❤️

[@onearmwarriortv]

Been gone but so happy to be back. Abbie has such a wonderful support system

[@beckyjones6956]

Thank you both for sharing your experience in advocating for Abby. Being a parent can be difficult in all aspects and then dealing with a child with disabilities and feeling not listen too can be so draining. I have loved watching grow into the teenager she is today. You both are great parents.

[@normagarcia3570]

She is a blessing you two are amazing parents keep it up .

[@homeschoolautismlife]

Just hearing your story is validating. So much of what you said resonated with our rural experience. We didn't sue but I'm so thankful to be homeschooling and not fighting a system that doesn't and can't work. Bless you and Miss Abbie! Hugs

[@introspect418]

I am so sorry you had to go through this unimaginable nightmare. Happy to hear you won the case!

[@harliesridefrenchbulldogs]

Thank you for sharing yours and Abbie's story. I'm sure it was hard going back to some of those memories. Congratulations for persevering and coming out on top. I remember in a previous video you mentioned a care taker who wasn't doing their job with Abbie and sitting at a friend's house all day? Would you do a video on that as well? I think that's something that can happen to anyone, special needs or neuro typical. How you figured it out and tips could help anyone.

[@chelsearobinson8067]

Yes pls pls do this video

[@mrskaren1469]

Yall are awesome parents and I love yall.

[@trevorc7621]

Infuriating yet inspiring. I hate that you had to go through so much, and those questions must have been awful to have to answer. I am pleased you got the win, but hopefully it's more than just words on paper and some honest changes happen. I have to say that as a 27 year old man living in Newfoundland, Canada I really didn't expect to follow your family as often as I do. I've started about 4 months after you moved to the new house and I'll usually go a month without watching and then binge all the missed videos. Watching you has given me knowledge of things autism-related that I would never have known. I'm able to see new things in autistic children and have a whole new point of view. It's endearing to have this new perspective thanks to you guys. Asa, Cilla, Isaiah, Summer and of course Abbie....You are all perfect examples of just being decent, loving human beings. Less judgement, more fulfillment, something we could all learn from watching you.

[@elizabethrobinson4390]

i am glad that your going through this i hoped everything went well to support her and guide her just be yourself and do the right thing for your child just be you

[@justmejo9008]

Hugz to you both 🙂🙃 your struggle is crazy. So glad to meet such strong loving parents

[@torontokat54]

Thank you for sharing your experience. I know how hard this was for you but you have done a great service for anyone who is experiencing any kind of challenge with their child, both typical or not. I had one of my children who was a completely normal intelligent child but was a Selective, elective mute for the first three years of her schooling and I had to fight tooth and nail to not have her diagnosed as a child with learning and intellectual deficits. It was the hardest fight but it was also worth it. Luckily I never had to go any kind of legal route and was able to work within the school board to get what was needed for my child. I am happy to say that she is now 42 years old with children of her own, she graduated high school with honours and scholarships to University, went to University and is now a professional in her career. Thank you once again for sharing. Hugs to all of you!

[@danielonn2002]

Thank you for sharing this. Free and inappropriate education at its finest. I am so happy you advocated on behalf of so many other Studebts.

[@jennifercole9527]

Y’all are so awesome for doing that for Abby!! She is so lucky to have y’all as parents..

[@lucyyoung5307]

As parents we don’t get metals, but you definitely would be an award winner. Not just for the lawsuit but your daily life. 🏆🥇🎗🏅💥🌟❣️Really love you guys.

[@glennamiles3566]

You are the best parents to that young lady. Together you are stronger. She is doing so well.

[@Laurenjersey50]

Thank you for sharing 🧩 🙏🏼

[@sandramcglinchey7712]

Your amazing parents and keep going! I love ❤️ watching your videos !

[@indica113]

I am so glad you fought for her!! she deserves the "best"

[@leehamilton8344]

This is such an enlightening video. All parents should see it. There is still a long way to go in some areas. Thank you for sharing.

[@annehoward2039]

I'm sorry that you had to go through this just to get a basic need for your beautiful daughter, but sincere congratulations on pursuing to the end even at great cost to yourselves and Abbie.

[@crystalscheider4575]

Thank you for sharing this! I am sorry this has happened to Abby and you! There are so many people that don’t know to advocate and push for their child the way that you have and just trust the teacher and school. (Call your parent advocate if your child is on an IEP!) There is a huge disconnect with paraprofessionals, teachers, principals, and the district, as well as lack of education for paraprofessionals and parents. There’s also a lot of two faced and covering up for one another in some of the schools. I was a “paraprofessional”/ whatever they want to call it for 2 and a half years in the public school system and will never do it again! There are some really great people out there in the schools, but there are bad “apples” out there too! There’s a lot of you can do this and we will overlook it, but if someone else does it, it’s a terrible thing and you’ll be made a spectacle. Lack of funding and lack of education is a huge problem!

[@mariahann44]

as a person with adhd and learning disabilities and having to do a yearly iep when a child til the end of high school .... 18 iep in one year i couldnt image that and since i was able to Participate just omfg i am sorry that happen to abby and you guys am so thankful for the school District i attended more so then ever after hearing that even 16 year after being school . so glad you won!!