By Mike Kapic | Sun City West
Regarding the Victory Autism Academy, I’m disappointed in the behavior of Sun City West residents. This was supposed to be our time to get right with our God, the Bible and our fellow man. Instead, it appears that we’re starting a food fight without a clue about our opponents’ status or intentions.
It is unfortunate we embarrassed ourselves by not doing our due diligence in recognizing the true nature of Victory Autism Academy’s platform and business model. Mr. Schuerman of Victory Autism Academy clarified its objectives and the operation very well. It is obvious now that it is not a public institution requiring tax support from Sun City West. The 55-year-old claim is not tarnished because the young people are not residents but visitors.
A quick google search revealed no announcement of an autism K-12 school in the Sun City West Independent, but a release by Victory’s Facebook page on April 4 announced the opening.
The topic did afford me an opportunity to learn a bit about autism and its history. For instance, the term “autistic” was coined in 1911 by a Swiss psychiatrist. Since then, the disorder has been very slow to find support in medicine, public education and not much support for families until just recently.
I’ve known of a few parents’ difficulties over the years in dealing with this disorder and having little to no support from the health care or education industries until recently. The public is becoming more aware of autism due to its growing public support and with the help of companies like Victory Autism Academy.
Understanding the problem goes a long way toward reconciliation and presenting a welcoming hand to new neighbors. Mr. Schuerman noted that there were volunteer opportunities with Victory Autism Academy. That is one way to honor the second of the Great Commandments.
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