For some, graduation isn't so special

Graduating from high school is typically a moment of great joy for young people and their parents, but for students with disabilities it is sometimes described in dark terms. “It can feel like sinking into an abyss,” said Cathy Healy, the mother of an adult son with Down Syndrome, who recently completed his studies at an Alexandria, Virginia, high school.

During their public school years, children with disabilities are entitled to a menu of special services, such as music or occupational therapy, extra reading help and door-to-door transportation. Educators are legally required to prepare special-Ed kids for life after school under the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act. The law says that by the time students with disabilities are 16, schools are supposed to provide planning that may include more school, getting a job or trying to live independently.

The Education Department recently examined how well states have been implementing the special-Ed law and issued report cards to the states. Most received poor grades for their efforts to assist students with the transition out of high school. Read more in this article by The Associated Press.