Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Special Education topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Parent praises Suffern programs after son's progress following rare developmental diagnosis
Summary
At the June 16 board meeting, parent and employee Amy McKenzie described her son Rory’s diagnosis and credited the district’s Foundation program, related services and aides with helping him progress academically and socially; she urged appreciation for staff and programs that supported his growth.
At the Suffern Central School District board meeting on June 16, parent and district employee Amy McKenzie delivered an extended, personal account of her son Rory’s diagnosis and subsequent progress with district supports.
McKenzie described early, severe developmental setbacks for Rory, saying he was diagnosed with a rare childhood disintegrative disorder and at one point "my baby boy was gone." She told the board the district placed Rory in a Foundation classroom and provided a range of related services — ABA therapy, art and music therapy, aides, and supports from the PPS department — that she credited with helping him return to school activities, make friends and learn to read independently.
She recounted milestones such as participation in holiday concerts, Olympic Day and field trips, and noted the district’s efforts helped Rory move from refusing school to being an engaged student who "never wants to miss school." McKenzie thanked teachers, aides, security staff and related service providers by role (she did not name district employees specifically, per the meeting rules) and said the family looks forward to Rory continuing in Suffern High School.
No board action was taken in response to the comment; the statement was part of the public‑comment period and served to recognize the district’s special‑education staff and programs on the public record.
