Totally revolting

Dear Editor,

When at the SPELD Conference I was given a copy of your publication – an interesting read BUT the item by Peter Giddens I found more than “rotten” – totally revolting in fact!

For over 12 years I have worked as a tutor for children with various problems – one so stressed at eight-years-old his hair was falling out! I would hope no “ordinary teacher” would find that amusing. His teacher had decided he was “almost a special needs child.”

An assessment found he had an IQ of over 120 and he went on to achieve NCEA English.
Believe me, these children do not CHOOSE to be DYS anything and properly taught most go on to be very successful people.

I think MOST “ordinary teachers” realise that now – especially those who have had personal family experience with them.

Evaluating your contribution Mr Giddens? You’d be lucky to get a D!

P.S. I hope you have reviewed Richard Lavoie’s book It’s so much work to be your friend. I think it should be compulsory reading for all teachers and parents.

— Faye Bensemann, Motueka