1. Self introduction - From a special school/institution for children with disabilities to an
ordinary school
Leadership Development Course 2009
-
Born prematurely in a state of suspended animation. Diagnosed as having cerebral palsy at the age
of one. Affected lower extremities are of spastic type ?
-
Spent my elementary school days in a special school/institution for children with disabilities.
My experiences in the institution:
-
Entering the institution was decided by a Child Guidance Center and my parents.
I was informed one week before entering.
-
Wanted to bring many books with me, but it was not allowed because of property restriction rules.
-
Found name tags with “No. 51 Koji Onoue” written with a felt-tipped pen, sewed on
everything from the jacket to the undergarments.
-
Dreadful experiences of a surgical operation and exercises before going to bed
(Refer to Material 1.)
-
The special school was on the second floor of the institution. We spent 24 hours each day just
being in the institution: “What does a traffic light look like?” “A shopping
day”
-
It was always emphasized to us that “a person with a disability must have endearing
qualities so as to be cared for by others.”
-
Some staff in the institution and teachers of the special school who provided moral support when
transferring to an ordinary junior high school
-
Attending an ordinary junior high school
-
Upon enrollment - “Now that you are in an ordinary school, we shall not be giving you any
special treatment. Do not depend on the help of facilities, teachers, or other students.”
- “Is doing nothing for me equal to ‘no special treatment’?”
-
Surprised at a students' general meeting - “Are there this many people?”
-
Being carried on the back of my classmate - moving to the music room, etc.
