One Giant LEAP For Child Rights

By Stanley Levin
Wednesday - July 07, 2010 Share

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By Stanley Levin, President
Levin Education Access Project

Becoming a parent is one of life’s greatest experiences. Yet, as described by one of our parents, when they suspected that their child was not developing like other children, the feelings, anxieties and questions became all-consuming. When they received the news that their child had a developmental disability, the weight of responsibility to care for that child increased tenfold.

Parents understandably need help navigating the field of special education in order to ensure that their child receives important, appropriate education and services. The Levin Education Access Project (LEAP) was founded in 2009 to ensure children’s rights to appropriate education and to advocate on behalf of children and families facing disabilities.

As a private, not-for-profit, 501(c)(3) agency, LEAP is organized around the principle that all children have a right to reach their full potential and that the proven way to realize that promise is through appropriate education.

A LEAP student presents Stan Levin a medallion of Saint Damien blessed by Pope Benedict as a token of his gratitude for the nonprofit’s services

In furtherance of this mission, on July 17 from 8:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the William H. Richardson School of Law, LEAP is presenting a special seminar with Dr. Barbara Bateman, an internationally renowned expert in special education and special education law. She has worked in the field of education for more than half a century and has provided training in all 50 states.

Parents facing the daunting task of the educational program meetings and understanding the requirements of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act need relevant information in language that they can understand. At the seminar, Dr. Bateman will present practical hands-on material on appropriate education programs and what to do if the school district fails to implement those programs. Please call 237-LEAP (5327) for more information.

All members of our community have a vested interest in education. LEAP invites you to join us in the founding of this important organization. Visit leaphawaii.com to learn more.

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