When sixth grader Issac Vanderelen visited his old teachers at Clarkston Elementary at their open house, Sept. 2, he also got a surprise.
His parents Katy and Ian Vanderelen were there along with his grandparents, and one of his former teachers, Nate Fuller, was there to talk sports with him. In the cafeteria were also Principal Brian Adams and other staff members. They were all there with something special for the student.
“I know you got left out during the fifth grade send off,” Adams explained. “I felt really bad about that and I wanted to make it right. We really want to congratulate you on all the hard work.”
The fifth-grade send off last spring included presentation of Presidential Awards recognizing excellent grades.
Issac didn’t receive an award, so Katy and Ian thought his grades were not up to par. But when his report card came, it was all As and one B.
On the Autism spectrum with Asperger’s Syndrome, Katy wondered if his learning disability was the reason.
“Autism is very challenging. Adding behavioral problems onto that makes it even more of a challenge,” Katy said. “(But) Issac worked very hard, and we really felt he should have been recognized for his achievements. He should of been up there with his peers.”
Even so, a smile lit up Issac’s face after getting the award last week.
“I feel really good,” he smiled. “I’m really glad I got an award. I worked hard.”
His family was happy for him too.
“I just want him to know how very smart and special he is,” his grandmother, Pat Parks said as she wiped tears from her eyes.
Katy and Ian are always willing to stick up for their son when they think something is not right.
” I will always make sure he gets the opportunities other students get,” Katy said.
It’s challenging both at home and at school.
“When school is stressful it makes the home life more stressful,” Katy admits.
“We have behavioral challenges or times when he does not want to go to school,” Ian added.
But Issac loves learning and despite his struggles, he does very well.
“He is very good at reading and spelling,” Katy said proudly. “A year ago Issac took a AIMS WEB test and scored over the top of any non-special needs child.”
It’s a lot of work to make sure he thrives.
“Everything I do is about my son. Everything I do is for Issac. I really wanted him to be recognized for his hard work,” Katy said.
So when he did not get recognized, she contacted several school officials to explain the error.
Officials told her Issac was accidentally left off the list. She got an apology and was told Issac’s certificate was in the mail.
Issac got his award, but Katy and Ian were hurt Issac was not included.
Adams said the situation was an oversight. When asked if Issac would be recognized in any way, Adams said, “I will contact her. I would love to give it to him.”
Katy said Issac completed 90 percent of the work other students did, following his Individualized Education Plan.
“Every disabled student has, or should have, an IET. The plan allows things like extra time for tests or less homework,” she said.