Tuesday, July 5, 2016

More Heaven: a story of one woman's desire to educate all children

More Heaven by Jo Anne White, Ph.D is based on a true life experiment in the Philadelphia school system in the late 1970s. In response to the 1975 Education for the Handicapped Act, public schools were to educate all children despite the severity of their disability. As everyone was nervous and skeptical that the program would work, Dr. White was hired as the sole teacher and program coordinator. This is her story.


The story opens with Eva in March. The sole student, Eva was exhibiting autistic behavior. With each day, Miss Tina, the teacher, is able to draw Eva out and she begins to blossom. Slowly more children are added in the new school year: Patty, Ricardo, Martin, Beverly and Warren. As well as a teacher’s aide, Kaye. Together, the teachers and students begin to learn the basics of life and education. Math, writing, field trips to stores and the zoo. Each student has their achievements and their setbacks but their push forward. Each student leaves an impression on the heart of their dedicated teacher.


More Heaven is a great, inspiration story of one teacher’s dedication and determination to see children with disabilities get an education that was previously denied. To see her students blossom and excel is proof that anyone can learn if just given the chance. It is a special teacher’s heart to be a special education teacher. I can great respect for those who teach these children and try to give them the tools to have the most meaningful life as possible. I highly recommend More Heaven.

More Heaven
is available in paperback for $12.95

or on the Kindle for $3.99

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