Unfortunately over the past few years I’ve heard several stories of educators who have made some shocking decisions when it comes to their students. This however is the first time I’ve heard of a principal making a bizarre decision. A situation that just came to my attention involves a 11-year-old boy with autism name JaMar Taylor who was purposefully locked out of his school.
You can learn more about the full story in the video above
Apparently Jamar’s mom said the principal “went on the intercom and instructed everyone not to let him in.” The principal since has been placed on paid administrative leave by the Kent School District as an investigation is still taking place.
He was wandering outside trying to get back into the school before a student let him back in. Apparently the situation involved Jamar not being able to use the bathroom. He was outside for 13 minutes.
From my doctoral work in Educational Technology Leadership, my work as a professional speaker speaking in the schools about topics such as autism and inclusion and some incredible friendships, I’ve met some amazing educators out there who are truly making a difference for their students regardless if they have a disability or not. With that said though we need to make sure situations like these are taken very seriously. As someone who has autism, if I was in this situation I would have been completely traumatized. Think about the psychological damage an incident like this could do to anyone let alone an 11-year-old boy.
This is my take. What’s yours on this situation? Would love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
Kerry Magro, a professional speaker and best-selling author who is also on the autism spectrum started the nonprofit KFM Making a Difference in 2011 to help students with autism receive scholarship aid to pursue a post-secondary education.
Have Kerry, one of the only professionally accredited speakers on the spectrum in the country, speak at your next event by sending him an inquiry here. If you have a referral for someone who many want him to speak please reach out as well! Kerry speaks with schools, businesses, government agencies, colleges, nonprofit organizations, parent groups and other special events on topics ranging from employment, how to succeed in college with a learning disability, internal communication, living with autism, bullying prevention, social media best practices, innovation, presentation best practices and much more!
