Inspirational Michael thriving in big school
PARENTS FIGHT FOR MAINSTREAM EDUCATION FOR SON
Audrey and Michael Boyle, pictured at their home in Lusk.
Wednesday July 28 2010
A COUPLE'S fight for their six-year-old son born profoundly disabled to obtain a normal education and to be treated equally has just seen the youngster complete his first year in a mainstream school. Tommy and Audrey Boyle, who live in Dun Emer estate in Lusk, set up a website for children with special needs (www.myspecialneeds.ie) and are now to host a conference to highlight what can be achieved.
Michael's disability has not been diagnosed - he can't talk or walk - but he has completed a year at Lusk National School and is to enter senior infants in September.
His year in mainstream education, after his parents rejected the other schools on offer, has resulted in a massive transformation and improvement in their respective lives.
This was summed up in his teacher's end-ofyear report, which stated that his 'progress is truly encouraging and inspiring'.
It added: 'Michael met the challenge of coming to big school with enthusiasm and curiosity. He has made wonderful friends and built relationships within the school community.'
The teacher concluded: 'I'll miss him next year but look forward to seeing his continuing progress.'
Audrey and Tommy, who also have a three year-old daughter Aoife, have noted the difference for the better that his attendance at mainstream school has made.
Audrey said: 'First and foremost Michael is extremely happy and is safe and I can go over any time I want. The school is four minutes from our home - literally round the corner. He's not distressed and tired travelling for up to three hours to school and back which could have been the case.'
She also told of the changes it had made to him, learning how to behave, and trying to be a 'big boy' like his classmates. His concentration levels have also improved, she added.
At home, life is easier, with Michael no longer as sensitive to noise, which resulted in the family having to leave their house every weekend when lawnmowers and house alarms went off.
He couldn't tolerate the noise of the hoover, but has got over that, but still has a problem when the washing machine is operating, his mother told the Fingal Independent.
However, he has no problem at the school when the alarm sounds when his mother collects him. Previously he would 'break down into tears and sob his eyes out', she said.
- Terry CONLON
