To the Editor:

In response to the Feb. 14-20 Letter to the Editor "Parent Questions Safety Precautions at BOCES" in North Country This Week: I am a parent of a developmentally disabled child, and I am grateful for the St. Lawrence-Lewis BOCES Life Skills program and the positive impact it had on my son’s life.

My son was born with a rare disorder and has required special care since he was an infant. He began his educational career in the BOCES Program at Potsdam elementary, which he loved. My son later returned to his home district, but he did not experience the same level of care and individualized instruction that he had at BOCES. We decided to send him back to Potsdam where he was a part of the Life Skills program. We immediately saw a huge improvement. Our son was happy again and excited to go to school each day. He thrived in the program thanks to the specialized care and individualized approach to learning that Mr. Smith and the rest of the BOCES staff offered.

I can confidently say that safety was the top priority for all students in the Life Skills program, and even though some electric tools were used in a separate area of the workshop by teachers, students never used these tools. They sanded and painted projects in an area separate from the other tools. Students were always very well supervised. I never once doubted that my child was safe while he was part of the Life Skills class. I knew that all proper safety measures were taken.

The workshop is an important element of the Life Skills program because it teaches students problem-solving skills and hands-on learning, that they may not have the opportunity to experience otherwise. Students are immensely proud of the items they make and sell in the community. This program teaches our developmentally disabled kids that they are valuable, and provides a sense of belonging. Please keep this in mind when you see that the Life Skills class is selling handmade wooden items.

Even though Brandon has since graduated, he still volunteers in the Life Skills program twice a week. Mr. Smith forges lasting relationships with his students. I am proud of all my son has accomplished thanks to Mr. Smith’s guidance, and I support the BOCES Life Skills program.

Pam Northrop

Massena