Teachers, Thank You and I’m Sorry

I saw a post this morning shared by the amazing Jacalyn Wetzel that said something like…

‘Almost zero active shooter drills take into account disabled children.’

I paused when I saw it. I read it again and again. I don’t know if it’s true or not. I guess I’ve never researched the subject.

But what I do know is that my son could not hide. Or stay quiet. He could not play dead. He would not be able to think to cover his body with blood from a peer.

He would run. He would scream. It’s terrifying.

I’m scared to ask the questions about active shooter drills. I think because I’m scared of the answers.

As I scrolled through the comments on her post I saw many parents like me. Terrified.

I even commented myself. About how when I worked for a large nonprofit years ago, and helped my safety team organize a disaster awareness plan, that we had to take into account a co-worker who used a wheelchair. And would need assistance out if the elevators were not in use.

There were only so many physically abled people who could carry her out. There was only one who said he would.

I remember that discussion. It was terrifying.

Then this comment. From a special education teacher.

‘Unfortunately our plan involves 1 teacher helping kids hide and the other preparing to die to try and take down an active shooter.’

This comment made me cry. It gave me chills.

I didn’t know if i wanted to share it because the fighting online makes me angsty and uncomfortable. Especially on my own page.

But I decided to do it anyways.

Thank you to teachers. All teachers. Thank you.

Thank you to the teachers, paras, aides, therapists, and everyone else who chooses special education. Thank you. Thank you for protecting our babies. Our vulnerable babies.

Imagine going to college to educate, foster minds, love kids, shape the future, and then one day typing online that you would take an active shooter down to protect kids.

I cannot imagine.

Thank you teachers. Thank you. Thank you. And I’m sorry.

Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and join our supporter page, Coop’s Troops, for an amazing community full of support and understanding.