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Circle of Friends has had a huge impact in the Stockton Unified School District. The spirit of inclusion is alive and well in seven of our district’s schools. Four high schools, two elementary schools and one special center are currently participating in the Circle of Friends Program. Hundreds of students are involved and the program is entrenched at each school. At each site, special education students are treated as an integral part of the entire student body. Teachers, students, administrators and support staff are all cognizant of the inclusion process, and many barriers have been breached. It is a joy to watch as people come together to support children with special needs. Circle of Friends is truly a “win-win” program, where everyone who participates receives their own intrinsic reward. What began with two high schools and a vision of inclusion, the program has blossomed into wonderful life changing experiences for many people and the community. Circle of Friends is a common topic at IEP [Individualized Education Program] meetings. Parents often request that their child participate in the program. Students proudly wear their COF shirts on campus. Inclusion, tolerance, and diversity are evident in even our district’s toughest inner city schools. I am not sure who benefits the most, the general education students or the students with special needs. The program works on so many levels, and has become an integral part of the participating schools. In this often fractured society, Circle of Friends is making a difference in our student’s lives. It is a small time commitment that produces dramatic results. Each step to inclusion, makes us all better people. I recommend this program to all school communities. Robert Lichter, Program Specialist ************************************************************************ When we were told our son had autism it felt like someone had kicked us in the stomach. We didn't know what it was or how it would impact his life or our life as a family. As he became older, we realized he needed opportunities to have friends and participate in activities like other children his age. This has proven to be one of the biggest challenges of all! How does someone with limited language make friends? How does someone his age make friends? Bruce & Shirley Fett, Parents ************************************************************************ My involvement with Circle of Friends in high school fundamentally shifted my perspective of the world. I entered Circle of Friends as a rebellious sophomore. I was struggling academically and was headed down the wrong path. Circle of Friends asked me to have lunch once a week with a fellow student who had Fragile X Syndrome. Our ensuing friendship redefined my outlook on life. I became more sensitive, more grounded and more caring. My grades went up, as did my involvement with other extra circular activities. As I've gone on to graduate from NYU and start my own business, I have maintained my friendship. We regularly go to dinner and the movies. I consider him to be one of my best friends and I consider joining Circle of Friends one of the best decisions I've made in my life. Bryce Maddock, CEO Task Us ************************************************************************
*********************************************************************** We have seen important benefits in Robin's life as a result of her participation in Circle of Friends. She enjoys spending time with her friends or talking to them on the phone more than anything else. Her relationship with these friends makes her feel special and gives her self-esteem. She now feels part of the campus and the community, instead of being segregated. The happiness Circle of Friends has brought to her life is immeasurable! Every participant in this program, disabled or non-disabled, has his or her life touched in positive, beautiful, and lasting ways.
*********************************************************************** I love my friends and my friends love me.
*********************************************************************** I've seen benefits in my own life because now I am more accepting of differences and I don't look down on anyone with disabilities. This program has opened my eyes to see that people are people no matter what and everyone needs friends.
*********************************************************************** Recently, someone mentioned that my role in high school was one of a volunteer. I never considered myself as a volunteer but rather a participant, one who got as much out of the program as anyone else. I gained self-confidence, found balance in my life and most importantly learned to make lifelong friends. These are the skills I will carry forward with me no matter what challenges lie ahead.
*********************************************************************** Jeffrey has autism and is one happy camper at Circle of Friends. He is very comfortable in this setting and looks forward to all the activities. This represents a dramatic change for someone who generally prefers to be alone. I sense that for the first time in his life he has a sense of belonging to a group. This is wonderful social progress and a tribute to the program. Bravo Circle of Friends! Harry Haskell, Parent
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