Columbia (WLTX) -- Autism affects 1.5 million Americans and is the fastest-growing developmental disability, but one Columbia teacher says the diagnosis doesn't mean children can't grow and learn.
Amber Kelley helps the 3 to 6 year old autistic children at Polo Road Elementary find the missing puzzle pieces. Kelley says that no child should ever be left behind just because they see things in a unique way, "It's just children who think differently and perceive the world differently and it takes us being willing to get in their shoes."
With a mix of love and understanding she helps each autistic child reach their full potential by setting the bar high, "It's very important to have your expectations high so that they can rise to meet those expectations because they will."
She believes her influence can't stop when her kids walk out of the classroom, "Constantly talking with parents via e-mail about things that they can do to help children be successful at home, because that's where it begins."
Kelley says seeing each child hit important milestones is priceless, "This is the first time a lot parents are hearing their child speak and that's enough to give you chill bumps."
Now in her third year of teaching, she tirelessly works the extra hours needed to create a fun and functional environment. She says that she makes sure her kids have a sense of accountability, "Each child has a classroom job and that gives them ownership and responsibility."
Even with a new baby at home, Kelley knows this is where she is meant to be. "He's only 7 months [old] so it's still very much a work in progress... trying to find the balance, but I think because this is such a calling for me it's very easy for me to come in and want to be here every day and want to do my best."
10/28/2009 8:07:20 AM
