Paige Carter, a mother from South Australia, has expressed disappointment with the government’s autism strategy following her son’s challenges in the education system. When her son, Oaklan, who has since been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, and epilepsy, was in a nurturing and accommodating school setting, he flourished. Now—ever since he became part of this new approach—he is in class three days a week for 90-minute blocks. Carter feels that systematic issues within the education framework have held Oaklan back from achieving her full potential.
Carter’s family was prominently featured when the Premier unveiled the state’s first Minister for Autism nearly three years ago, highlighting their hopes for improved support for children like Oaklan. The South Australian government has recently been the most proactive in introducing measures, including the appointment of autism inclusion teachers to state schools. Carter says that her son and too many others still aren’t getting the help they deserve.
Systematic Challenges in Education
Carter has stated that Oaklan’s current difficulties at school are the result of deeper systematic problems. She continues to insist and show that these hurdles aren’t exclusive to her family, but are common to many in the autism community.
“Our autistic kids are amazing and they have such incredible qualities, but we need people to nurture them the way that we as their parents do, for their life to be successful,” – Paige Carter.
The introduction of autism inclusion teachers was an impressive move, showered with praise from education bigwigs across the land as a great leap toward inclusion. Chief executive of the Education Department, Martin Westwell, said the reforms are world-leading. He lauded the development of new highly qualified teachers. He claimed that the government was committed to delivering record support for children with autism.
Carter is not convinced that these initiatives will actually succeed. She argues that while they represent a good start, they may not be achieving the outcomes necessary for individual students like Oaklan.
“They’re a good start, but are they actually achieving the outcomes that the individuals need? I’m not sure, time will tell,” – Emily Bourke, Autism Minister.
The Government’s Response
After Carter’s criticism, Minister Bourke released a statement clarifying that the government is indeed committed to developing plans jointly with families. Together, they will identify the best support solutions and methods. She denied allegations that the autism community had been let down by current strategies and highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance educational resources.
Carter has vowed to keep pressure on the state government, advocating for more comprehensive support systems for not only her son but thousands of children facing similar obstacles. She is passionate about ensuring that every child has equitable access to education that they deserve.
“Our children should not be left behind just because it’s going to cost more money,” – Paige Carter.
Carter’s persistence shows an increasing sense among parents. They are encouraging and engaging with state and local leaders to develop improved educational structures tailored exclusively for autistic children. Helen Graham, CEO of Autism SA, expressed that these frustrations are felt by so many families, reflecting a growing sentiment in the autism community.
Perspectives from Educational Leaders
Such specialized training is crucial for the teachers who have the highest stakes and responsibilities to support children on the autism spectrum, Graham emphasized. She also stressed that it is unfair to ask educators to meet a wide range of learning needs without the necessary support.
“This idea that we ask a teacher to be everything all the time is unfair… there are so many organisations out there that autism is everything they know and do,” – Helen Graham.
The South Australian government can boast that it has over-delivered on its commitments from the 2022 election campaign. They don’t yet feel like they’ve delivered on more than they promised. Families like Carter’s are still left wondering if these reforms are really doing anything to benefit them.
Carter voiced frustrations of feeling like a pawn by the federal government for marketing efforts during the rollout of autism reforms.
“[Oaklan] was a good look for them, but they haven’t come through so, I don’t think there’s any other way to feel other than used,” – Paige Carter.
