Public Schools in Durham said that although it has seen significant improvement to online learning with the access of more computers this school year, it is working through some challenges of helping each child with disabilities.
“A week into the new school year, she is feeling stressed out, anxious and frustrated.” said Pedew, a mother with a child who has autism, the ABC11 reported.
“We are failing our children. We’re not helping them,” Pedew said.
Pedew works from home and is a single mom to 12-year-old QJ.
Between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m., QJ sits on Zoom calls with three special education teachers. But Pedew said she is struggling to do her own work because QJ won’t stay focused.
It’s a common concern for parents with children who have autism to feel that in-person learning is preferred.
According to the Autism Society of North Carolina, 1 in 57 children in the state has autism.
The group said it is vital for parents to document their challenges and communicate them to the school system.
“You have to take care of yourself and be calm so you can project that calm feeling for your child,” said David Laxton, a spokesman for the Autism Society of NC.
“The organization offers free webinars to help families who need help calming their child, or tips and guides on providing structure.” said Laxton
Pedew said she has communicated her concerns to her son’s teachers.
She’s considered hiring a tutor but learned that it would cost her $1,400 a month.
