States To Allow All High School Seniors To Celebrate
Commencement
By Dave Reynolds, Inclusion Daily Express
May 5,
2006
HARRISBURG, PENNSYLVANIA & BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS--There's good
news this week for students with disabilities in Pennsylvania.
Governor Ed Rendell signed "Ashley's Law" Monday allowing all special
education students in the state to participate in graduation ceremonies at the
end of 12th grade, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported.
Under the measure, which passed unanimously in both the state Senate and
House, such students will be able to receive what amounts to a certificate of
completion rather than a diploma. They would then be able to continue to
receive special education services through age 21.
One senior to benefit from the new law is Ashley Brubaker, for whom the
new law is named. Her mother, Deb, personally advocated for a change in the law
after officials at Selinsgrove Area School District informed her that Ashley --
who has cerebral palsy, autism, anxiety disorder, and speech problems -- would
not be able to participate in commencement ceremonies.
In Massachusetts, a state representative announced that the House has
unanimously passed a measure that would allow special education students in the
state to participate in graduation whether or not they have passed the
mandatory Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System exam.
Related:
"Law opens graduation ceremonies to special ed students"
(Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/06124/687157-57.stm
"Exemptions
for special education students passed" (Winchester Star)
http://www.inclusiondaily.com/news/06/red/0505e.htm
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with Inclusion Daily Express international disability rights news service.
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