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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