The education system in the United States requires significant improvements in accommodating and accepting individuals who are neurodivergent or developmentally challenged. Currently, people with ADHD, Autism, and similar conditions often face challenges in being taken seriously at school, work, or even on visits to the doctor. Public spaces should be accessible to individuals of all abilities and disabilities, ensuring that no one is excluded from participating in society.
Neurodivergent children benefit from classrooms that are structured and stable. According to Maureen Bennie from Autism Awareness Centre Inc., routines and visual aids are essential for comprehensive understanding. Visual aids help students understand daily routines without being caught off guard, and flexible seating can significantly enhance the educational experience. The National Library of Medicine emphasizes that children with special needs should have access to inclusive education in general schools that are adapted to meet their diverse needs.
Historically, tools for special needs students in American schools have only been properly developed in the last 50 years, although the movement for inclusive education began in the 1950s. Former President John F. Kennedy introduced laws in the 1960s to provide tools and equal access to education for students with special needs. Despite improvements, challenges persist, including low teacher wages and a lack of emotional regulation tools for students.
Opinions on special education vary. UC psychology teacher Ms. Cheryl Rossi explains that it’s important to tailor instruction to students’ needs and acknowledges the challenges of accommodating diverse learning styles in large classes. She emphasizes that teachers need professional development to improve accommodations. Meanwhile, Holly Dalgliesh ’26 suggests that autism awareness be increased in schools and notes that there are both benefits and drawbacks to homeschooling as an alternative for neurodivergent students.
In conclusion, the U.S. education system needs to make adjustments to become more inclusive and accessible to all students. Universal training for teaching neurodivergent students should be part of every college education program. As advocacy and awareness grow, so will accessibility in schools.
