Colton's Cry: The Blue Box

Abuse in rural South Carolina school.





Behind The Blue Box











Last Friday, April 17Th, 2009, "The Blue Box" brought new meaning to abuse within a school system.

Today, I return to you asking for continued prayers. The local news media was to meet and interview the family at 11:30 AM to cover Colton's story. Instead, the media representative called Colton's mother and said, "The district office told us Colton's treatment was within the guidelines of his IEP and we will NOT be covering your story at this time."

Once again, this family is crushed and devastated. With more lies and an obvious cover-up, I come to you in outrage. The treatment Colton has endured is abusive and unhealthy. He deserves a quality education in a safe learning environment. This child will likely need counseling to grow beyond this event.

It is my desire to give voice to Colton. He deserves the best. He is a beautiful child who needs our help. Please help me give voice to Colton!

Thank you for your continued prayer support.

Andrea Bowling Perdue

Update: The Blue Box

Isolation as punishment in rural South Carolina school.











Behind "The Blue Box"








Late Friday, I posted a story about a friend's child being place in an isolated area called, "The Blue Box" as a form of punishment for hours at school.

Earlier today, the family met with a local attorney. He told them he no longer handles this type case. Why wasn't she told this on Friday when she made the appointment? It is critical for this family to get accurate advice and specialized representation. On Friday, there was mention of truancy. They clearly want them to back down and disappear.

Today, I come to you with a heavy heart for this family. They are discouraged! Please pray for guidance, direction, peace, comfort and love. Thank you for your continued prayers. GOD BLESS each of you.

Serving GOD together,

Andrea

The Blue Box

Isolation from teacher and other students in rural South Carolina School!




Behind the blue box!









Today has been an emotional day. I learned last night a friend's child had been punished in a way I deem harmful to his emotional health. Her eleven year old son who has dyslexia was repeatedly placed in/behind the blue wall (the children call the blue box) for hours day after day for punishment. When my friend approached the teacher and principle they could not or would not give her an answer as to what he had done, yet both agreed the punishment was acceptable. My friend does not tolerate bad behavior and wants her child properly disciplined, however this method is clearly harmful. He was also placed in silent lunch and had no recess for Wednesday and Thursday. Still she had no answers!

No answers for punishment of this kind and only justifications, she called the district office and there got no real help. She withdrew her son from school on Thursday around noon and took him straight to the doctor. Her son told his physician while in tears, "I am just retarded...there is no hope for me." The physician has given my friend an excuse for school for the next couple of days stating: Emotional Distress at school.

My christian sisters and brothers, I am outraged. I grew up in a family of educators and have many friends who are educators, none of whom would resort to this method of isolation as a form of punishment with a child. This method is archaic at best and in my opinion is clearly abusive.

Please pray for this family, but most especially this precious child. Pray he will be healed, restored, and become the triumphant human being GOD created him to be. I am confident GOD has awesome plans for this young boy and will use this experience for HIS good will and purpose.

Continued prayers for resolve and healing,

Andrea