Experts often underestimate the cognitive abilities of people with physical disabilities by assuming that an inability to walk or talk indicates low potential. This document outlines an ambitious learning vision and goals for a student by graduation to develop communication, literacy, computer, mobility, and life skills through education and support despite any physical limitations.

1. c

3. …“Experts” focusing on limitations to the
point of telling parents what to hope and
dream.
… “Experts” assuming that if a person
cannot walk or talk, he/she has low
cognitive ability and little potential for
learning.

5. $25,000

7. Learning Vision 2013
By graduation day, Ben will learn the skills to …
a) Respond appropriately and accurately via communication device
when asked how he feels or what he wants;
b) Read (at some level) using a computer and have gained basic
knowledge of math, science and health topics as well as current
events;
c) Use a computer (with minimal assistance) that is equipped with a
switch and accessible interface;
d) Navigate his wheelchair (safely) in any classroom situation most
(75%) of the time;
e) Transfer (with assistance) from a chair to his walker without the use
of a mechanical lift;
f) Stand (with assistance) long enough to change his clothes;
g) Sit in a classroom chair (with assistance) for as long as he wants and
interact with others and his environment;
h) Walk across the stage (with assistance) to receive his diploma!