Update on Chad and His Parents - You're Not Going to Like This.

Remember Chad and his parents? Chad was the deaf youth whose parents battled ASDB contending his education was inadequate. His parents have now posted an update to the original blog posting. Here is what they wrote, unedited, with my comments in brackets:

Update on Chad Kennedys Legal Battle with ASDB.

This is a very sad day for all deaf people. The Administrative Judge has once again disnissed our case against ASDB. The judge ruled that when Chad received his High School diploma ASDB was no longer responsible for their mistakes in his education. Since he graduated with a normal reading level for the deaf (4th grade) and was class Validictorian that is acceptable. [Guide comment: That fourth grade reading level thing again?! Is that a legally acceptable standard now??] Also the fact the his grandfather passed away a couple of days before his hearing and the hearing could not be rescheduled until after he graduated was basically his tough luck. Even though the AZ Dept of Education found ASDB out of compliance and ASDB owes Chad for years of services the judge has let them off the hook.

It was heart breaking to see Chads reaction to the judges decision. He was very upset. He said "I didn't do anything wrong, ASDB was wrong. I am completley finished with ASDB." After we discussed it for a while Chad showed what kind of a person he truly is when he said "Thats OK mom! I am going to work hard and study hard to get a good education. I don't need ASDB."

We are greatly saddened that not only did the ASDB fail Chad in his education but the legal system has failed not only him but the entire deaf community. They both only expect the deaf to reach a 4th grade reading level.

Deaf people are not stupid. They are just as capable and have the same rights to an education that hearing people do. It is completely wrong that hearing people put limits on the deaf. ASDB make some huge mistakes in Chads case. They have admitted it to us but legally have gotten on the hook because Chads grandfather passed away and we chose to plan and attend the funeral.

This case has taken a toll on our family and our health but we will always support our son and his right to a good education.In spite of everything that has happened if our story helps even 1 deaf child get a better education then it has all been worth it.

We encourage parents of deaf children to learn to sign and get very involved in their childs education. Educate yourself on our childs rights. Seek advice from knowledgeable experienced people not connected with the school. Get a strong Parent Advocate and even an attorney if necessary to make sure your child is provided with strong support. Research and visit schools (Deaf and Public) to see where your child will get the best education. Advocate for your child because if you don't no one else will.

Chad has just finished his first year of pre-college classes and is quite happy with his school. He will succeed.

Thank you to everyone for your support and encouragement. We appreciate it.