On Monday February 22, we had the privilege of visiting a school for students with special needs. This school was situated outside the city of Seville near the Lora Tamayo School where we run the day camps. The students who attended the school had a wide variety of disabilities. Some were cognitive, or physical, or sometimes both. The school was funded and built by members of the community. They have dedicated their time and money to make sure that the school has amenities. Many times special needs schools are underfunded and have a poor staff retention rate. This school however, had many amenities that are uncommon in a school that is funded by the community. They have state of art bathtubs specially designed for students and caretakers to interact. Furthermore, they have lifts to pick up heavier students to transport them around the physical therapy room. There is a doctor and a psychologist on staff as well. There are over one hundred students with 5 physical therapists, teachers, and administrators. Students receive education until age 21, and the purpose of the school is to give these students the tools to succeed after they leave. This includes basic tasks like communicating when they need to go to the bathroom, or putting clothes on their own. This will help their future caregivers take care of the students
We had the opportunity to visit some of the students in the classroom. The teaching plan was changed to accommodate the needs of the students. While visiting a class with 15-16 year old students, we saw many interacting with the computer, listening to music, and working on art project. We then had the privilege of visiting the section of the school, which was for the extremely disabled students. The classroom was designed for students who cannot see, hear, or talk, in a way that familiarizes them with the room. For example, the room played into all different senses. The lights were kept dim as to not cause sensitivity to the eyes, there was calm relaxing music playing constantly. They were very attune to the power of touch. They had water beds and fabrics to further familiarize the students. The students and the staff were very gracious hosts and were kind enough to answer all of our numerous questions. They also provided us with snacks, drinks, and coffee after we gave the tour.
Visiting places like this puts many issues in our own lives into perspective. Seeing the world and other people’s situations gives you an appreciation for what you have and the importance of giving back to the community just as was done to build a school for these students.
To conclude our day, our kind host Rafa also toured us through the Bellavista neighborhood including the local day care center as well as an historic church site.
