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Lorem Ipsum Dolor Spring 2016
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those who have combined vision and hearing loss. Students with sensory
disabilities are rare in schools and often local schools need specific
information about how to appropriately support students with sensory
disabilities- in using technology, communication, and having teachers who
"get it". What are your thoughts about the need for legislation for students
who have rare disabilities?
Paloma: What's great about America is that everybody has the right to
school. People with rare disabilities are still party of "everybody" so they
should get an education so they can go places and be awesome.
Question: How do you see the Cogswell-Macy effort as a way to support
these rare communities of students?
Elizabeth: Paloma has Peter's Anomaly which occurs in .006% of the
population but she and students like her need special instruction and devices
to excel. Cogswell-Macy would require schools to offer that support. Without
it, deaf-blind individuals such disability advocate Haben Girma would not be
so successful.
Question: Paloma, you have spoken well about many issues that students
face in terms of having access to technology as well as teachers who
understand their needs. Why do you think it is vital for members of Congress
to understand and support the needs of all students, including those with
disabilities?
Paloma: It is important to self-advocate using examples so other people can
be aware of what's going on and do something. Even kids can make a
difference with websites, marches and going to Congress. I told Senator
Rubio and Representative Graham my story and showed them my devices.
Congress is here to serve us!
Question: Paloma, what advice, based on your experiences, would you
share with other students, particularly students with disabilities, about using
their voices and knowledge to make a difference?
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