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Autistic Student Forced to Clean Cafeteria, Parents Allege
20 Oct
Summary
- A high school allegedly made autistic students clean the cafeteria.
- Parents discovered their son was part of a work-study program.
- The school district is reviewing its life-skills activities.
Parents of a student with autism have accused Lakewood High School in Sumter, South Carolina, of requiring their son to clean the cafeteria. The father reported that his son, Will, was involved in this activity after other students had finished eating. He learned that other students participating were part of a work-study program and alleged this was discriminatory.
Sumter School District issued a statement explaining that students in employability classes engage in various activities, including cleaning tables, to develop practical life skills and promote independence. The district also noted that these life-skills activities are undergoing a review to ensure they meet student needs. Following the father's meeting with school officials, the alleged work-study program was reportedly discontinued.
