Eliza's University Experience: 62 Letters of Support

These are letters received in support of Eliza and sent to SOU. More letters can be found and additional support added under comments to the LETTERS to SOU in SUPPORT of ELIZA Blog Post.

November 24, 2010

Dr. Mary Cullinan, President

Dr. Alissa Arp, Dean, College of Arts and Sciences

Southern Oregon University

1250 Siskiyou Boulevard

Ashland, Oregon 97520

Dear Drs. Cullinan and Arp,

I have reviewed some of the press coverage of your removal of Eliza Schaaf from her ceramics class and reviewed your letter of October 19, 2010 to Ms. Schaaf. The second paragraph of your letter states that SOU does not offer segregated educational opportunities to students with intellectual disabilities and that Ms. Schaaf is “not otherwise qualified to meet the academic standards necessary to participate in this course.” You do not site any “academic standards” for auditing the course and your web site does not suggest any such standards for auditing other than “for fun, learn new skills for your job, go on a travel program, and much more!”

One’s expectation of college courses is that professors grade students on their performance after completion of the semester and do not remove them from class for voicing an incorrect answer such as describing the shape of an object as “white.” One’s expectation of colleges is that they offer accommodations, such as note takers and sign interpreters, for students with disabilities and do not consider appropriate accommodations to be disruptive. One would expect that students who are disruptive would be disciplined according to rules of student behavior. Perhaps, at SOU, these expectations are true only for those students who are not labeled as “intellectually disabled.”

Your letter states that the requested accommodation would “entail a fundamental alteration” of the course. For an audited course for which Ms. Schaaf was not requesting a grade and which she was able to attend, it appears, without disruption when accompanied by her mother, it’s not clear how would your educational service be fundamentally altered.

It appears from press accounts and your letter that your motivations are based upon Ms. Schaaf’s disability, rather than any clear standard that is required for students who audit your classes. Even students who have “non-admitted status” do not appear, as judged from your web site, to have to answer all questions in correctly in class and keep their hands off of museum displays in order to avoid expulsion.

In short, as a disability advocate and Oregon citizen, I urge you to reverse your ill-advised decision and to allow Ms. Schaaf to complete her course.

Sincerely,

Bob Joondeph
Executive Director

___________________________________________________________

Dear President Cullinan,

I am the parent of a freshman student at SOU. I am writing to you to request that you reverse your decision to block Eliza Schaaf from finishing her ceramics course. I cannot tell you how appalled and ashamed I am by your decision. I have felt from the moment we looked into SOU as a possibility for my son to attend, that we had found a place where the teachers and staff truly cared about the students and where open-mindedness and kindness abounded. The decision to remove a developmentally disabled woman from a beginning ceramics course has served to make me re-think my initial impression. I sincerely want my son to attend SOU for his entire undergraduate degree, but I really don't know that I can allow that if this decision is not reversed. I am not threatening, nor am I kidding. I feel VERY strongly that you have made the wrong decision.

Please, before it's too late, do the right thing and let this young woman finish her class. It will be a win-win for everyone concerned. Eliza will get to finish the class she loves, her classmates will see that SOU really does care about human rights, the community will see SOU in a much more positive light, and parents like me will not feel ashamed to have their children attending your university.

Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,
Laurel Robinson

___________________________________________________________

Dear SOU,

My name is Brandon and I am 12 years old and currently go to school at AMS in sixth grade.

When my mom picked me up from school she told me about Eliza. I myself have a 26 year old brother with Down syndrome named Josh. My opinion is he is better than any other brother with disabilities or not, therefore I cannot see why you are doing this to Eliza. We had the same problem with my brother Josh. He made it through elementary school and middle school but in high school it seemed like the teachers didn’t want anything to do with josh and felt giving him a bit of extra help was a waste of time. That is why I think it is amazing that Eliza has made it this far and you have no good reason to stop her now. This also shows how strong and independent Eliza is and very smart. She may think different, act different, but still we are all the same.

This all reminds me of discrimination to the blacks and we all see what situation that put us in and how stupid we felt after we realized that we are all the same no matter where we come from and who we are. After all, she has made it so far and there are only a few classes left.

I know you at SOU really take that all very seriously, but if you don’t think she can achieve this there is no hurt in giving her a chance. I have known Eliza since I was just a baby and no matter what anybody may think I am more than positive she can do this.

Sincerely,

Brandon

___________________________________________________________

Diana M. Katovitch, M.S. author of The Power to Spring Up writes:

President Cullinan and Dean Arp,

I am writing in support of Ms. Eliza Schaaf, an non-enrolled student auditing an Introduction to Ceramics course this fall, who has been excluded from completing her class due to the university's concerns about her ability to intellectually benefit from the course.

I am the author of a book on post-secondary education options for students with significant disabilities entitled The Power to Spring Up (Woodbine House Publishing, 2009), which directly addresses many of the issues surrounding Ms. Schaaf's enrollment at your institution. I have had the privilege of interviewing and visiting staff and students at colleges and universities in the United States which have embraced the presence of students with developmental disabilities (including Down Syndrome) in college classes. This is an emerging field, born of the belief that individuals with disabilities, like individuals without disabilities, have the ability and the desire to continue learning after high school. Students with intellectual and developmental disabilities do have the need for reasonable accommodations and the responsibility to provide for any support needs they may have that exceed these. Based on the information provided on-line and in the media, it seems that Ms. Schaaf and her support team were willing to provide that support in order to meet her additional needs. The petitions and statements of her peers is also very powerful and should be treated with respect.

Upon visiting the Southern Oregon University's website, I was surprised and somewhat saddened to read that SOU strives to be an "inclusive community" as indicated by your mission statement and the video of Ms. Monica Alfara, a 2010 graduate who is Deaf. The university's initial actions barring Ms. Schaaf from class, and resolution of the grievance by allowing her to complete her projects separate from class time argue against this statement. A statement of inclusion is a powerful thing to individuals with disabilities, their families, and allies. Providing accommodations and support for some students and not others is disheartening to our community and ultimately dishonest to the community as a whole. This is a chance for the university to make its mission statement a reality, not just a marketing strategy.

I would welcome this opportunity to discuss policies and to brainstorm solutions in this case, as well as those cases which will surely follow. I have also enclosed several other resources and contact information which you may find useful.

Feel free to contact me at the following address if I can be of any assistance. Thank you for your time and attention.

Sincerely,

Diana M. Katovitch, M.S.

katovitch@verizon.net

Additional resources:

www.ThinkCollege.net (Institute for Community Inclusion, University of Massachusetts, Boston. Contact person is Cate Weir)

www.transitioninstitute.org/thinkcollegeny (University of Rochester. Contact person is Martha Mock)

Think College by Meg Grigal and Deborah Hart (book)

___________________________________________________________

Brandon, Ashland Middle School student writes:

Dear SOU,

My name is Brandon and I am 12 years old and currently go to school at AMS in sixth grade.

Sincerely,

Brandon

___________________________________________________________

Don Azar, DSASO President writes Nov. 22:

Dear President Cullinan:

I’m speaking as board president of the Down Syndrome Assoc. of Southern Oregon, the step- parent of an adult born with Down syndrome, and as a friend of Eliza Schaaf and her family. I am also a retired university professor, administrator, and cross-cultural advisor.

I have read the communications forwarded to you to date, and I’m sure you know that I fully support Eliza’s return to the classroom. I’m also sure that you know why, so I’d like to speak to the administrative issues that I find troubling.

The three events that I find nearly impossible to comprehend are: 1) the very fact of Eliza’s expulsion from the class she was auditing; 2) the manner in which communication occurred –or didn’t occur – with Eliza and her family; and, 3) the fact that you and your university allowed this situation to catapult itself into a full-blown battle between SOU and all who support equal opportunity for the developmentally disabled. I would call it a public relations nightmare, and so far, a well deserved one. More importantly, with all of the details attached to the handling of this situation, a serious lack of regard for students with what we’ve all called “special needs”, and for diversity in all forms on your campus has been exposed. Likewise exposed, is what seems to be a lack of understanding as to what these students and many others bring to your school and to all the “other” students who would greatly benefit from contact with individuals different from themselves. In short, there is a much larger issue at hand than Eliza’s situation alone.

You now are presented with an opportunity to resolve the situation and adopt policies that would prevent anything like this from occurring in the future. There are examples across the country of institutions that have developed far better and thorough ways of assisting these students and giving them a chance to be all that they can be, and who recognize the benefits that accrue to all parts of the university. We (DSASO) would be happy to guide you or your staff to information and contact persons at those universities. You are presented with an opportunity to take a leadership role in educating those on your campus and in the surrounding community that looks to you to lead the way. Please…..Take it.

Thank you.

Don Azar

___________________________________________________________

Pamela J. Lucas SOESD supervisor with Pinehurst School writes:

Pamela J. Lucas

385 Pierce Road

Medford, Oregon 97504

541-245-9487

Dr. Mary Cullinan, President

Southern Oregon University

Churchill 125

1250 Siskiyou Boulevard

Ashland, Oregon 97520

Dear Dr. Cullinan,

I am writing this letter in regard to the recent decision to terminate Eliza Schaaf’s participation in a ceramics class at SOU.

It was my good fortune to know Eliza when she was an elementary student at Pinehurst School. I worked with the Pinehurst School District for many years evaluating their teachers through my position with the Southern Oregon Education Service District. The Pinehurst community is a small, tight-knit family where everyone supports each other. This support was always evident for Eliza in her younger years, and it doesn’t surprise me that it has resurfaced now.

I’m confident you are well aware of the importance of providing an opportunity for students with special needs. I am hopeful that SOU has had a chance to reassess this error in judgment and will remedy it as soon as possible. The community that supports SOU is watching and waiting for your response to this critical issue.

Sincerely yours,

Pamela J. Lucas

cc: Alissa Arp

Alan Bates

Peter Buckley

Ron Wyden

Deb Evans and Ron Schaaf

___________________________________________________________

Steve Neuberger writes:

Dear President Cullinan,

November 29th and December 2nd are important days for Eliza Schaaf.

Eliza was having a successful experience doing ceramics, auditing a college-level class and being with her peers at SOU. It represented a continuation of her social and intellectual experience in the primary and secondary grades, an experience that was empowering enough for Eliza that she could stand and give a speech in front of 400 people at this year's Buddy Walk.

I will let others debate the laws and regulations around the University's termination of Eliza's participation in the course. I am most deeply offended by the clumsiness of the University and the absence of any sense of "reasonableness" or "reasonable accommodation" in the face of the firestorm of indignation with the actions of the University.

Now November 29th and December 2nd are important days for all of us who care about Eliza, the spirit of inclusion and recognize the value of human diversity in our communities and institutions. I hope the University will get on better footing by allowing Eliza to complete her course, apologize for your handling of this situation and enter into a dialogue about how to address issues of inclusion and disabilities.

Your neighbor,

Steve Neuberger

784 Ashland Street

552-1416

___________________________________________________________

Rep. Peter Buckley writes November 22:

President Cullinan and Dean O'Bryon--

I would respectfully request that you reconsider your decision to deny access to Eliza Schaaf to the last two class periods of Intro to Ceramics. It is truly baffling to me why SOU would refuse to listen to its students, its community and its most ardent supporters and insist on a course of action that seems to me to be remarkably short sighted and clearly unnecessary. I have spoken to SOU faculty members who are heartbroken at the actions your administration is taking, believing that you are not only making the wrong choice as educators, but are undoing with one decision years of work to build support for SOU in the community and beyond.

It is worth pointing out, in my view, that when the university administration spends more time and resources with attorneys making sure you can legally justify your decision than with the student involved, with her classmates, or even with SOU faculty members to try to work out a solution to a specific situation, you have a clear indication that you are on the wrong path.

I do not understand the lack of communication with Eliza, the lack of willingness to speak to her classmates for input as to if her presence in the classroom was disrupting their education in any way whatsoever, the decision made by administrators who did not observe the class periods where Eliza had the personal assistance that was readily available to her, and the drawing of a line of academic purity for a student who is auditing an intro to ceramics course. I am not sure how SOU could have handled this any worse, and again, I ask that you reconsider your decision, allow Eliza to complete the two classes as both she and her classmates so clearly desire, and that we work together to develop procedures for the future to ensure that this situation does not ever have to be repeated.

My office has begun research into other universities' policies for students with developmental disabilities, and I am confident that with good will for all involved, and with a goal of serving students first and foremost, we can come up with policies that work for all concerned. From the start, that is all I have requested from SOU in this situation, that you please seek a solution to the benefit of all concerned--not a solution that might benefit an administrator or administrators who made a certain decision at a certain point in time, but for all concerned. Please listen to the feedback that you are receiving that the decision you are making is not credible for a student who is auditing an intro to ceramics class, has personal assistance readily available, is not seen in any way as a disruption by her fellow students, and is only seeking to complete two class periods that now appear to be in far more danger of being disrupted by her absence than her presence.

As a policy maker, there have been numerous times when I have made a decision that has turned out to be incorrect, and that I needed to change course on. I am asking you as administrators to do the same. There is absolutely nothing in your informal grievance process that disallows you from reversing your decision, so again, I am asking that you reconsider the information you have gathered during the process, perhaps even be willing to consider the information provided by every single student in the class stating that Eliza is not a distraction and is not taking time or focus away from their education in the classroom, and to be courageous enough to change course to truly work to resolve this specific situation.

Sincerely,
Rep. Peter Buckley

___________________________________________________________

Ann Marie Hutson, Executive Director DSASO Letter to the Editor:

Dear Editor,

The recent decision on behalf of Alissa Arp, Dean of the Arts and Sciences Department at Southern Oregon University to dismiss Eliza Schaaf has brought to light the inequities in our educational system. Those who have children with Down syndrome will tell you that their battle to ensure their child receives the best education begins when their child starts kindergarten, and never lets up. In many classes in Southern Oregon, the child is segregated from their peers. Parents have to make diligent efforts to insure their child is included with their typically developing peers.

Those who raise these children and the professionals who work with them agree that learning with their typically developing peers is the most effective form of education for children and adults with Down syndrome. Children and adults with Down syndrome can and do learn. They are sight-based learners. The importance of learning with their typically developing peers is that they oftentimes mimic the behavior around them. Parents who have children in segregated classrooms report that their child develops behaviors they didn’t have before entering the class. Adults with Down syndrome have jobs in the community. They volunteer their time to various organizations. Children and adults with Down syndrome thrive. They take dance classes, art classes, exercise classes, writing classes and belong to book groups. They are a part of the community.

The added benefit of having a child with Down syndrome included in classroom settings is that their peers also learn. They learn that their intellectually challenged classmate is more like them than not. They learn compassion and understanding. They learn the importance of including everyone in today’s society. That we all have something to give.

The community is dumbfounded by the decision to dismiss Eliza from her ceramics class. Her fellow students in the ceramics class and the Student Senate at the University have expressed their unanimous support of Eliza. They believe that Eliza should be allowed to finish her class. Also, like all of us, Eliza has feelings. Right now she is sad and frustrated that she cannot finish the class.

So why has SOU made this decision? There has not been a satisfactory explanation.

The only conclusion that the community has made with regard to this situation, is that someone needs an education and a heart and it’s not Eliza!

Ann Marie Hutson

Executive Director

Down Syndrome Association of Southern Oregon

___________________________________________________________

Mallory D. Pierce

885 Tyler Creek Rd

Ashland, OR 97520

(541) 482-2741

Mallory.pierce@gmail.com

Delivered via fax (541) 552-6171

November 17, 2010

Alissa Arp, Ph.D.

Dean, College of Arts and Sciences

1250 Siskiyou Blvd.

Ashland, OR 97520

Dear Dr. Arp:

By now you have received a number of letters from members of the community speaking out on behalf of ceramics student Eliza Schaaf. No doubt you now have a better sense of this remarkable young woman. I have also read the certified letter from you dated October 19 and delivered on November 8. (Most of the correspondence related to this case is posted on Eliza's blog at www.elizaschaaf.com.)

I trust that your facts are correct (I have no reason to assume they are not) but, unfortunately, your rationale for terminating Eliza’s enrollment fails to justify your extreme actions. Your examples are inconsequential and simply don’t warrant expulsion. You utterly fail to see the greater good in allowing Eliza, a dedicated student eager to learn, to complete the last third of the introductory art class she is auditing.

I urge you to do everything in your power to immediately change course, rescind your decision to terminate Eliza’s enrollment and explore options with her parents after this class is completed. Currently, Eliza has completed two-thirds of the class and has a full-time assistant. She appears to have the support of her teacher as well. Please allow her to complete her unfinished projects and see the course through with her classmates.

I've worked along side Eliza on a number of occasions preparing food for cross country events and football games. Yes, she needed more oversight and instruction and I was happy to lend a hand when needed. In my experience most people are willing to pitch-in. Additionally her parents are always present to support her and those working with her.

Finally, there is a moral imperative to consider. As a community -- indeed as a culture -- inclusiveness makes us stronger. We need diversity in every aspect of our lives. By transitioning from an attitude of tolerance to one of inclusion, we begin to view the world through a variety of lenses. From these new and different perspectives we see more possibilities, more ways to solve problems, and more ways to share the planet in harmony.

Sincerely,

Mallory D. Pierce

CC: Schaaf Family

___________________________________________________________

Robert Given, neighbor writes:

Robert H. Given

2020 Soda Mountain Road

Ashland, Oregon 97520

November 18, 2010

Mary Cullinan, President

Shame On U

Churchill Hall
1250 Siskiyou Boulevard
Ashland, OR 97520

Alissa Arp, Dean - College of Arts and Sciences

Shame On U
1250 Siskiyou Boulevard
Ashland, Oregon, 97520

Re: Eliza Schaaf

Dear President Cullinan and Dean Arp:

Please be advised that the Student Senate, class mates of Eliza Schaaf, the Community, State Senators and Representatives, United States Senators and Representatives, and your Board of Trustees / Foundation have all meet in secret and have unanimously voted that you have acted inappropriately and are hereby notified that you are not to show up for work upon receipt of this letter, that you have been terminated as President and Dean. In addition, your compensation and benefits have been terminated. You are barred from showing up for work upon receipt of this letter.

The findings of the above named groups are as follows:

You permitted Eliza Schaaf to attend 13 of 18 classes and then notified her via certified mail of your decision to terminate her enrollment at Shame On U without the courtesy of meeting with Eliza and advising her of your decision. In fact, you last previously meet with Eliza after class number 4 and at that time you advised Eliza that you would find her an art major student to assist her in class.

You have violated Eliza Schaaf’s rights as set forth in Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

You have failed to be courteous towards Eliza and her parents.

You have failed to be gracious towards Eliza and her parents.

You have failed to listen to Eliza’s classmates and students at SOU who have supported Eliza and want her back in class.

You have failed to timely return phone calls of Eliza Schaaf and / or her parents and in a positive and constructive way attempt to resolve issues.

You have failed to provide an educational opportunity for Eliza to achieve her best.

Without communicating to Eliza you made no effort as promised to find her an art student to assist her with her studies. In fact as the record will show, you consciously made no effort to find her an aid despite your advice to her that you would.

You have brought bad press to the University you represent – it now has the reputation of not providing educational opportunities to those who can walk and talk, may be equally bright as you, but may go about things and or think a little different than you.

You have set a great example of how to discriminate against others and not have the decency of appropriate communications.

Yes – you have rights as well. You will have to hire an attorney at your own costs if you wish to appeal the decision of your immediate termination, seek termination pay and or any other benefits.

All of this could have been avoided by being gracious, courteous and respectful of Eliza. You had every opportunity to meet with Eliza on multiple occasions and collectively work together to resolve any concerns and / or issues you had.

How does it feel to be terminated and not communicated with, not be given due process and provided an opportunity to work out differences prior to receipt of this letter.

Bless You and Kindest Regards,

Robert H. Given,

Neighbor and Friend of Eliza Schaaf

RHG/

CC: Laura O’Bryon, Dean of Students

Susan Walsh, Associate Provost

Vicki Purslow, Assistant Dean of College of Arts & Sciences

Senator Alan Bates

Representative Peter Buckley

Congressman Greg Walden

Senator Jeff Merkley

Senator Ron Wyden

Ashland Daily Tidings

Medford Mail Tribune

Ron Brown, ABC News

Chancellor George Pernsteiner – Oregon University System

Eliza Schaaf – www.elizaschaaf.com

___________________________________________________________

Bill Gabriel, former teacher of Eliza for 3 1/2 years at Ashland High School writes:

Nov. 13, 2010

Dr. Cullinan and Alissa Arp,

My name is Bill Gabriel and I am a teacher at Ashland High School. I had Eliza as a student in Global Studies, English, Journalism and the Rogue News for the 3 ½ years out of 4 that she attended AHS.

Eliza has always been willing to try her hardest to fit in a world that doesn’t seem to be made for her. Her courage of embracing her disability is a lesson for us all to live by. And therein, we are all better people watching her trying to overcome her disabilities. She made the classroom a better place because of her perseverance and her efforts.

As a teacher of 27 years, I understand the challenges of teaching to a wide range of abilities. But every student brings a gift that emerges over time. Eliza is one of those students that has brought many gifts to my classrooms and to my life. I would hope you would allow more time for her to show you her gifts.

Eliza was so thrilled to be enrolled as a college student at SOU. This was a huge step for her, entering an unfamiliar world. I feel she needs to be given the opportunity to finish this ceramics class that is more than half way over. Give her a chance to really shine.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call me.

Sincerely,

Bill Gabriel

(541) 482-8585

___________________________________________________________

Betsy Bishop, former teacher of Eliza's at Ashland High School writes:

November 2010

Dear Mary Cullinan and Professor Strangfeld,

I know Eliza Schaaf; she is an amazing young woman. She is supported and loved by a wonderful family who understands the way school works, or at least how it should work.

In high school, she was a member of my MUSICAL THEATRE class at Ashland High School for 18 weeks. She never missed a class, she participated in every exercise; beyond that, my students accepted her wholeheartedly. They performed two nights in a row for audiences of 400. We were all so proud of her!

In my 35 years of teaching, I have never seen a special needs student like her sing and dance with a group of 20 other performing artists on stage. Her class applauded her efforts. If she can do that, she can surely complete a CERAMICS class.

Intro to Ceramics should be an entry level course in art opened to anyone willing to try. Eliza graduated from Ashland High School in June. If this is the only class she has enrolled in, why can’t she complete it with only 6 classes to go?

Eliza cares; she works hard and is always appropriate. She just wants to be treated as the other students are. Her parents and assistants have never asked for anything unusual, beyond thoughtful accommodation.

I am amazed that a public institution can appear so insensitive after a student has matriculated and completed 13 of the 18 classes.

Please be kind to this hands-on-learner who wants to experience college through art. We should applaud the effort and the accommodation with joy!

Please welcome Eliza in your class and introduce your college as one that invites all students to experience art.

I cherish the moments I saw Eliza perform on stage with my class. I cried. It was a pinnacle experience for an educator—and for our community at large. Don’t allow this unique experience to pass by. We have much to learn from Eliza. You, your SOU students, will be richer for it. I know I am.

Sincerely,

Betsy Bishop

Ashland High School Theatre

Producer/Theatre and English teacher

_______________________________________________________

Erika Hultz said...

Dear Southern Oregon University Administration,

My name is Erika Hultz, I am currently a junior attending Seattle Pacific University. I have been recently informed of Eliza Schaaf's disenrollment from SOU and I strongly disagree with this decision. I am a previous peer of Eliza's as I have attended school with her for ten years - from first grade throughout my high school career. Speaking from the perspective of a peer, Eliza has served as a teacher to me more than many of my actual professors. Eliza is someone who finds such a profound joy in learning and she communicates this to the other students and passes it on to those who are in her class. In sharing ten years of my education with Eliza I have been strongly shaped according to this woman's personality. In removing her from the classroom-setting she is not the only one who is hurt - but the entire classroom of peers that Eliza comes in contact with is negatively effected as well.

In segregating the higher performing students from those who learn differently, you create a stark distinction between those students as 'the other'. Regarding anyone in this way is extremely divisive and leads only to fear in regarding anyone who fits that profile of 'the other'. In removing Eliza from her Ceramics class you are doing precisely this. There needs to be the inclusion of special-needs students in the regular education level, especially in that of post-secondary education where the presence of these students is extremely lacking.

Eliza has been included in regular education classrooms her entire schooling career. She started out in Pinehurst school and moved on throughout high school. In each circumstance Eliza has risen to the standards of the class and met the requirements of the professor. The inclusion of a special-needs student in the regular education setting is critical to every student's learning process. The learning process is extended far beyond the lectures of the classroom and to that of the environment to which it fosters. In segregating Eliza from this environment you are damaging so much more than her knowledge of the subject - but you are giving her the wrong impression of her own ability to learn and interact with others - as well as denying her peers the opportunity to know this incredible individual.

I strongly advocate the immediate re-admittance of Eliza into her Ceramics class. She has a wealth of teaching to pass on to her peers that is communicated through her presence in the classroom. The classroom should be regarded more than the mere material that is taught - and as the whole of the environment, including the interactions of the peers amongst each other.

Sincerely,
Erika Hultz
Seattle Pacific University
3257 12th Ave W.
Seattle WA, 98119
Cell(720)775-7432

_______________________________________________________

Pearl Paulson, PhD writes:

Dear President Cullinan and Dean Arp:

I apologize for sending an email instead of using USPS, but I understand time is of the essence in respect to Eliza Schaaf's audit of a ceramics class on your campus. I am not acquainted with Eliza or the class in question. My concerns regarding her exclusion stem from my career in special education: On the faculty at Eastern Michigan University's Department of Special Education, as an educational evaluator and outreach provider at the Child Development and Rehabilitation Center, Oregon Health Sciences University (where I was also an associate professor of Family Medicine), and more recently a special education administrator in Oregon's second largest school district. Let it be understood that I have first-hand experience and endless empathy for educational institutions' challenge in serving a wide range of students with limited resources. I am also deeply committed to having students like Eliza enjoy lifelong learning experiences in environments shared by learners without recognized disabilities.

I have read the letters Southern Oregon sent to Eliza and her parents. I can understand how the described circumstances would concern the professor, although some would seem more relevant if Eliza were enrolled for credit instead of auditing. The letters do not give information about the timing of observations, or of specific interference with other students' participation. The letter is also unspecific about the nature or extent of accommodations that have been tried by the faculty or fellow students. Finally, I am concerned that SOU students without recognized disabilities may be missing a rare opportunity to increase their own understanding of people like Eliza and build appreciation of the "normalcy" of students somewhat unlike themselves.

Accordingly, I beg you not only to reconsider your decision to exclude Eliza, but to build a policy of inclusion, as would be in keeping with the Americans with Disabilities Act. I also urge you, based on my own experience serving this population, to consider accommodations suggested by Eliza and her family--for your own sake: When families have members with disabilities, they chalk up years of experience learning simple, practical ways to surmount all kinds of challenges, and historically educational institutions have benefited from their accumulated wisdom.

Cordially,
Pearl Paulson, PhD

______________________________________________________

Cindy Evans Trueblood, Ph.D, Molecular Biology ,University of Colorado, Boulder writes:

Dear Dr. Cullinan,

I ask you to take a careful look at the actions and behavior of all the people in your administration who have participated in assessment of Eliza Schaaf’s participation in Ceramics 255 at SOU. I wonder who these people are and how they reached the conclusions they reached. I wonder whom they feel they are serving. I wonder who or what they think they are protecting. I wonder if they think their actions have accomplished some goal of the University in providing higher education.

In Dean O’Bryon’s latest letter to Eliza she refers to the decision to continue barring Eliza from the ceramics class as a decision that allows “SOU to meet its institutional obligations”. Later in the letter she indicates that “SOU was required to meet obligations, while protecting the interests of the faculty and other students, and importantly, maintaining the integrity of the fine arts program.”

I ask you to consider these questions.

Who has caused disruption in Ceramics 255?

The October 19 letter from SOU, received by Eliza on November 8, states that Eliza’s presence in the class was disruptive, yet no convincing evidence has been presented and the students in the class have all signed statement saying the Eliza’s presence was not disruptive. I noticed that the November 20 letter does not state that Eliza was disruptive, nor does it apologize for having made that claim inappropriately in the earlier letter. Eliza did not disrupt the course and should not have been excluded on that basis.

However, what is clear is that the behavior of some unnamed people in the SOU administration has been disruptive to the lives of Eliza, her family AND to her Ceramics 255 classmates and the professor of the class. I would ask you to identify these people and ask them to step forward and explain their actions to Eliza and all the rest of us. My 13 year-old son keeps asking me, why did SOU tell Eliza she can’t go to the ceramics class. I have said many things to him trying to explain. I have said that some people at SOU decided that Eliza’s presence in the class was disruptive, but that the students in the class have all said that Eliza was not disruptive. He appropriately continues to ask: “Why won’t they let her be in the class?” I have to admit to him that I truly do not understand. Can you or someone in the SOU administration please explain this to us in language that we can all understand? SOU administrators did disrupt the course.

I hope that you will take action to assure that your administrators do not disrupt other courses at SOU because their actions have substantially damaged the reputation of the University. If you need evidence of this damage please be sure to carefully read thirty or more letters that you have received and take the time to look at the comments of more than 300 people who have signed the online petition asking SOU to let Eliza complete her Ceramics course.

Who has required SOU “to lower essential requirements for participation or provide accommodations that fundamentally alter the course or program of study”?

Dean O’Bryon states in her letter to Eliza that: ”SOU has determined that you are not qualified to participate in this class as we cannot provide you an accommodation that would allow you to fully participate without fundamentally altering the course.” What is the basis of this determination? You have presented no evidence that Eliza’s presence required fundamental alterations to the course. What are the criteria for full participation in the Ceramics course for a non-admitted student who is auditing the course? In what way has Eliza’s participation been lacking and what problems did this cause?

In contrast, the decision to exclude Eliza from the course has led to some alterations in the course and accommodations that that have been made BECAUSE Eliza was excluded from attending the class. In addition this decision clearly caused Eliza not to be able to fully participate in the course.

Based on my assessment of the situation, my answers to the questions I posed are: that; 1) the SOU administration has caused disruption to Ceramics 255 course and; 2) the SOU administration is responsible for “altering the course or program of study” of Ceramics 255.

At the minimum, please provide the courtesy of responding to my questions so that Eliza, and all of us who care deeply about her and the rights of all people, will understand the basis for the University’s decision. I still believe that if you engage your heart and mind, and look carefully at what has transpired, you will see that the right thing to do is to apologize to Eliza and invite her to attend the last two classes with her classmates on November 29 and December 1.

Sincerely,

Cindy Evans Trueblood, Ph.D, Molecular Biology ,University of Colorado, Boulder

_____________________________________________________

Mollie Mustoe, current ceramics classmate of ELiza's writes:

To whom it may concern,

My name is Mollie Mustoe. I am a sophomore here at Southern Oregon University and a fellow classmate of Eliza Schaaf. I am a very dedicated student with a 3.6 average GPA and I received a 3.78, 3.8 and 4.0 GPA for the last three quarters (excluding the summer session). I have worked with OSPIRG, the Oregon Student Public Interest Research Group, been alongside ASSOU, I am appreciated by my teachers and well known by my peers as a passionate student advocate.

I decided to hand write this letter so you may gather more personal information though the view of my handwriting. [original letter is hand written] I am Anthropology major, soon to be an English second major, and am dedicated to civil rights. This leads me to the purpose of this letter.

First and foremost I would like to express my utter disappointment in Southern Oregon University’s Administration (whoever this may directly include) pertaining to the decision to deny Eliza Schaaf her right to education. Secondly, the betrayal of the administration to students, as myself, in the introduction to ceramics class by using us as reasoning for this decision with no direct dialogue to our perceptions. Third, I would like to state how this action exposed a falsehood in what many students, including myself, believe Southern Oregon University represents. We believed this school strived for inclusion, freedom of education for all, a school that held diversity to high regards, and above all a school that believed in, listened to, and fully supported students of all backgrounds.

I have been shocked, angered, and completely and deeply wounded by this decision. That a school I came to because I believed this place would be different is denying a woman her right to education. That now I attend my ceramics class with a heavy heart knowing that I will not be able to see a dear friend because of an injustice inflicted upon her by my education system. That I now must sit in that room and know that all those days of hard work we put in together; all her projects she is not allowed to complete are forced to be left unloved. That her presence in this class is missing and thus has destroyed an environment I once found rich and inviting.

These are only a small portion of my feelings, but I know you have business you must also attend to. All I ask is that you take the time to rethink this decision, not only for the good of Eliza, but for the good of her peers. Uphold our dream of this University, and please do not let us loose faith that this world can change for the better. Stand up for the rights of Eliza Schaaf, and for all the students who support Eliza.

Enclosed are statements signed and dated by all 19 students in the Ceramics Class. Please be an administration that is here to support and guide us as students, take our say into consideration and guide us away from this division of persons.

Thank you for your time. I hope you have been able to read my handwriting, and that you have a beautiful day.

Mollie Mustoe

(208) 596 5848

mustoem@students.sou.edu

_____________________________________________________

Pam Marsh said...

November 14, 2010

Mary Cullinan
President
Southern Oregon University

Dear President Cullinan:

Six years ago, I attended Southern Oregon University for a year to finish up an undergraduate degree begun decades earlier. As a 50 year old at college, I was a little intimidated, but I quickly discovered that my classes – especially the lower division ones – were filled with a variety of students. I shared notes and study groups with 18 year olds just out of high school; with other middle-age returnees like myself; with veterans fresh from war; with 80 year-olds auditing interesting material; and with individuals with obvious physical and intellectual challenges. Some of us were there to develop specific job skills, others sought enlightenment, and a few of us just wanted to check off the degree. As a participant in this diverse student body, I developed a tremendous appreciation for the variety of roles that SOU is required to juggle, as both a community resource and as a regional university.

Given my experience on campus, I was thrilled to hear last summer that Eliza Schaaf was planning to enroll in classes at SOU. Eliza has been my friend for fifteen years, and I have watched her diligent, focused progress through elementary and then high school. Eliza has participated in mainstream educational classrooms throughout her educational career, and knowing her abilities, I was certain she would be welcomed and easily integrated into her SOU studies.

In contrast, I was shocked and dismayed to read the cruel, bureaucratic rejection letter Eliza received from the university last week. I assume that the cold, dismissive tone of Dr. Arp’s letter was dictated by lawyers somewhere; certainly, it lacked any note of compassion or humanity. The decision to deny Eliza the opportunity to finish her class appears to reflect anger, but at whom or what? At Eliza? Her mom? Her disabilities? And what message does this send to her classmates about the value of inclusion and the importance of compassion?

It is certainly true, as I observed on campus six years ago, that a diverse student body can require accommodations on everyone’s part. Eighteen year olds quite often come stoned and silly to class; middle aged students tend to talk too much and waste class time asking longwinded questions; international students often require help with language gaps; people in wheelchairs sometimes need a door opened or a hand with a backpack. Eliza needs an assistant. But so what? Learning about, and from, the marvelous variety of people in the world has always been the most important part of the college experience.

Southern Oregon University failed Eliza Schaaf and, in the progress, sent a shameful message to other students and to the community. As an alumna and a community member, I expect more. I look forward to your investigation into and remediation of this regrettable action.

Sincerely,

Pam Marsh
696 Siskiyou Blvd.
Ashland, OR 97501
541.282.4516

November 15, 2010 11:32 PM

______________________________________________________

Joyce Rogers, former Educational Assistant to Eliza writes:

November 13, 2010

Dear SOU administrators and faculty,

My name is Joyce Rogers, I had the great pleasure of working with Eliza Schaaf at Ashland High School (AHS) for two years. In that time I was impressed, to say the least, with her “ability” to partake in the mainstream educational setting. Not only did Eliza grow a great deal in those two years, she taught me to grow right along with her. Her dedication, commitment and punctuality were top on her list of priorities as a student and as a person. She taught me that you should always be a strong person who is dedicated to the task at hand. She has also shown me that if you put a task in front of her, she WILL do it, and do it well! I was constantly impressed with her willingness to give her very best effort in all areas of her academic career at AHS.

I have recently learned that SOU has terminated her enrollment. I have to say, I am sorely disappointed in that decision. I find it to be disgraceful that it would even be an option considered. I have been brought to date with all of the information that has been passed back and forth with the family and the staff with SOU. I am in complete disbelief that Eliza is now facing the fact that she cannot go back to complete the last few classes with her peers, which I can imagine appreciated having Eliza be a part of this class. As I mentioned before Eliza is very dedicated in any commitment she makes and for you to take that away from her is not in any way right or fair.

Eliza, much like a majority of her peers that graduated in 2010 from AHS, wants to follow her dream of being a college student. Again I am in disbelief that your staff has worked so hard in making this impossible for her to do. I greatly disagree with your decision and hope that you reconsider what has been decided and do the right thing. Let Eliza go back to her class and be with her peers.

Sincerely,

Joyce Rogers

541-821-3336

Joycie_rogers@yahoo.com

_____________________________________________________

Russ Branson, Administrator, Pinehurst School District writes:

November 16, 2010

MARY CULLINAN

President of Southern Oregon University

Ashland, Oregon

Dear Colleague,

As a graduate of Southern Oregon College, a special education teacher and now District Administrator of the Pinehurst School District – it is with great disappointment that I write this letter. I just received notice that ELIZA SCHAAF (a graduate of Ashland High School and Pinehurst Elementary School) has been terminated as a student by Southern Oregon University. Can you help me understand the reasons and rationale for this decision?

It has been my observation and experience that Eliza works hard in school, is motivated to succeed and makes a positive contribution to each class that she participates in. It is also my observation and experience that her family is supportive and willing to provide whatever is necessary to help Eliza reach her goals. So, what went wrong in this instance?

The Pinehurst School District prides itself in its inclusive philosophy. We believe that students with special needs benefit from interacting with typically developing peers and that students with typical development benefit from interacting with students with special needs. How is our philosophy different from that of Southern Oregon University?

I have over twenty years of experience in special education, from the classroom to director of special education, with a focus on inclusion for special needs students. I am more than willing to meet with, and assist, SOU staff in opening their classrooms to all members of our community.

I look forward to hearing from you in the near future.

Sincerely,

Russ Branson

Russ Branson

District Administrator

CC: Eliza Schaaf

Alissa Arp

Deb and Ron Schaaf

_____________________________________________________

Judy Barnes -

Former Executive Director, Rogue Gallery & Art Center writes:

4950 Mitchellen Place

Medford, OR 97504

Alissa Arp Ph.D.

Dean, College of Arts and Sciences

1250 Siskiyou Blvd

Ashland, OR 97520

Dear Dr. Arp,

I have known Eliza Schaaf since she was 3 years old (I was a teacher and director of an Early Childhood preschool program at the time) and I am proud of her many accomplishments as she has grown into a young adult. I know it has not been an easy road and I applaud her, her family, teachers and friends for taking it anyway.

I am disappointed and distressed that SOU can’t or rather WON’T be part of this continuing road. I’ve always believed in the arts as a level playing field, that if someone wants to improve their game they try to play with someone who is better than they and that we can all learn from each other. It seems to me that Eliza knew that she wanted to improve her game and the arts (which she has always loved) were a good place to start her college. She would say that she just wanted to learn, well she certainly did….but did anyone else? Is this what she came to learn? She was enjoying her class, learning from her teacher and classmates and she’s not happy with the decision to dismiss her from the class and not let her finish her work. As an alumnus of SOU, I’m not happy either. It strikes me that SOU has taken a carefully worded easy road and failed to even be open to the possibility that learning is a two way street in Eliza’s case.

I ask everyone involved to do some real soul searching and answer this question; Did you see a problem or a person? A person with a problem or a person that causes a problem is quite different requiring us to look at the humanity involved with both heart and mind. A problem is just something for the mind to ponder and solve or get rid of/give up on.

Please don’t give up on Eliza, please let her complete the class and her work. If you need support to make this happen count me in.

Sincerely,

Judy Barnes

Former Executive Director, Rogue Gallery & Art Center

________________________________________________________

Dianna M. Crary, neighbor writes:

November 14, 2010

To Whom it may concern:

My family has known Eliza Schaaf since 2006. Not only have we been impressed with all that Eliza can do, we have also been amazed at Deb and Ron's perseverance in helping Eliza work to her capacity in a world that does not always include people with disabilities.

When I first met Eliza she was very shy and quiet. As I have gotten to know Eliza and her family my first impressions have definitely changed. She may be quiet, but there is a heck of a lot going on behind that quiet front that she shows to most of the world. Her imagination, and writing skills are absolutely amazing.

People who get to know Eliza are better for it. She has had to overcome many challenges that most of us will never ever experience in our lives. As a retired teacher I am floored that in this day and time, we would deny a person access to learning based on a disability. The people who take the class with Eliza will be the true learners in this situation. Being with and around someone who wants to be there solely to learn......... how in the world can that be a disruption. If nothing else it will teach the other students a bit about themselves, and they may never again take their own learning for granted.

I am disturbed at a deep level that the University is going to such great links to block Eliza from this learning experience. And I would ask whoever has the capability to reverse this decision to do so immediately. Setting such a precedent in this day and age does not sit well with me, and I am sure many, many other people feel the same way . Please do the right thing!

Sincerely,

Dianna M. Crary

________________________________________________________

Wendy Kravitz, cousin to Eliza writes:

Wendy Kravitz

444 Vineyard Point Rd.

Guilford, CT 06437

November 14, 2010

To Whom It May Concern,

I write to support Eliza Schaaf's desire to remain a non-enrolled student at Southern Oregon University, and audit Introduction to Ceramics #255. After completing two thirds of the course, the University has made a decision to refuse her entry into class, claiming she was disruptive to the curriculum, and had limited ability to engage independently with course work.

As Eliza's cousin, I have watched her grow up over the past 20 years. Frankly, I have a difficult time imagining Eliza at age 20 being disruptive among a relatively unfamiliar group of students. She is a shy, quiet, and observant particularly in larger groups of people. I have been impressed how able she is to absorb and process what she hears and observes, and speak about what she has learned later on.

I am saddened and disappointed that a Southern Oregon University would be unwilling to stridently support those with different learning abilities and styles. Our country will only achieve true equality and potential for all, when we extend a hand and embrace rather than segregate those different from ourselves.

Please reconsider the University's earlier decision, and allow Eliza Schaaf to complete this semester course. For one who has had significant challenges in life, finding a dignified path for Eliza to travel through this labyrinth would be a graceful way for both the University and Eliza to stand tall and thrive.

Wendy Kravitz

___________________________________________________________

ALEXANDRA ARDISON & ARTHUR EVANS cousin to Eliza writes
51 Orange Drive
Crossville, TN 38555
Phone (931) 261-9478
Alex_Ardison@webbschool.org

November 17, 2010

Alissa Arp, Ph.D.
College of Arts and Sciences
1250 Siskiyou Blvd.
Ashland, OR 97520-5028

Dear Dr. Arp,

My husband and I found the news of Eliza Schaaf’s dismissal from your institution both shocking and heartbreaking. I am Eliza’s cousin, through marriage, as well as a school social worker. Given both my profession and my knowledge of Eliza, I must tell you that you have misjudged this woman.

We have had the opportunity to spend time with Eliza in varied settings, and have always found her to be eager, kind, compassionate, curious, and responsible. Whether we were camping in Montana, sailing in the Virgin Islands, reuniting in Maine, or mourning a loved one in Tennessee, Eliza has always been a positive part of those gatherings. Eliza has interacted with large numbers of people, young and old. In all of these interactions she had been highly aware of the feelings and needs of others. She has shared her most precious possessions, and the attention of those she holds dear, with ease. She is a writer, a reader, and a truly kind person. Whoever “observed” her in class did not see Eliza. Instead that person saw who she/he chose to see; not the beautiful person who was sitting right in front of her/him. Eliza is capable and able, to not see that is to chose to make an array of assumptions that are simply wrong.

As the parent of three biracial children and resident of Tennessee, I have seen more than my share of discrimination and prejudice. In higher education, I believe there is simply no place for either. Eliza is a bright, talented, kind, thoughtful, and eager student. To deny her the accommodations that would allow her to be a contributing member of your community, is simply wrong. Whether the law validates your decision is another matter. But, I see no way that charity or integrity do. Perhaps as Dean, you could see this as an opportunity to take a stand to support all of the students at SOU, and see that Eliza should be one of them.

Sincerely,

Alexandra Ardison, MSSW Arthur Evans

cc: Mary Cullinan
Deb Evans
Ron Schaaf
Eliza Schaaf

__________________________________________________________

Dana Greenblatt, AHS friend of Eliza's writes:
Mary Cullinan, President, Southern Oregon University

Churchill Hall 125

1250 Siskiyou Boulevard

Ashland, OR 97520

Dear Ms Cullinan,

I am writing this letter to voice my support in allowing Eliza Schaaf to complete her ceramics class at SOU. I am a friend of the Schaaf family and have known Eliza for several years. I was a student at Ashland High School with her for two years, and was on the Ashland High Track Team with her as well. Our team loved having Eliza and watching her hard work both in practice and track meets, it really displayed what determined girl Eliza is.

College has been a big step for Eliza and her family, as it is for any family in the same position. I remember when Eliza enrolled at SOU and how excited she was to begin her college experience. The recent decision to not allow Eliza to complete her remaining classes would deprive her of the positive first college experience all students are entitled to. I would hope SOU could make the appropriate accommodations to allow Eliza to continue her learning and participation in class which she is enjoying.

The Schaaf family has worked hard all of Eliza’s life to provide her with the opportunities of those her age. It is truly incredible what they have accomplished so far. Thank you in your consideration in helping them with this goal and fight for equality.

Sincerely,

Dana Greenblatt

__________________________________________________________

David Nickell

Associate Professor

West Kentucky Community and Technical College writes:

November 15, 2010

To SOU Administration, faculty and students,

I recently learned of the removal of Eliza Schaaf from an Intro to Ceramics class at Southern Oregon University. Ms. Schaaf was auditing the class as a non-admitted student. She has special needs and was being assisted by her mother who had attended every class with her. Neither Eliza nor her mother were aware of any problem until a certified letter arrived stating that she had already been removed.

While I realize the delicate issues university administrators face in terms of balancing the needs of all students while maintaining high academic standards, I would like to offer some insights from a program I am personally involved in as a professor of sociology at West Kentucky Community and Technical College.

For almost 20 years now our college has had a program called “College for Living” that couples full-time students, mostly from psychology and sociology courses, with intellectually challenged adults who come onto campus for instructional programs and activities. What we have found—especially in those with disabilities similar to Eliza Schaaf— is that the greatest obstacle they face is a combination of a rigid institutional structure and individual prejudice that blocks these citizens from leading more productive and fulfilling lives. Simply raising expectations for what is possible yields tremendous results, but it must occur at the social and institutional level.

Our “clients” in this program benefit from working with our full time students and our students benefit from the interaction by having preconceptions shattered through direct experience. Everyone comes away enriched by the program and I believe it cannot be denied that this is a valuable and needed expansion of the concept that higher education should serve the needs of the broader community. Higher education is about moving us forward as a society, not just job training. It is certainly unacceptable that higher education would serve to promulgate prejudice and the denial of access to an entire group of people.

Based on our experiences, and from what I know of Eliza Schaaf’s lifetime of pushing the boundaries of what is possible, I strongly encourage you to revisit the decision to remove her from this course. I would suggest that you have been provided with an invaluable opportunity that should be embraced and explored.

Sincerely,

David Nickell

Associate Professor

West Kentucky Community and Technical College

___________________________________________________________

Dorothy Walsh, friend of the family writes:
November 12, 2010

Southern Oregon University

1250 Siskiyou Blvd

Ashland OR 97520

RE: Eliza Schaaf

I think the most important question you must ask yourself regarding the issue of Eliza Schaaf finishing her ceramic class is what harm will it do to Eliza vs what harm will it do to the other students. Eliza is 2/3 of the way done with her class. All she is asking is to finish out this particular class. Eliza is not asking for special consideration but is willing to provide accommodations herself if need be to be able to finish.

We have known the Schaaf family for many years and have traveled all over Oregon watching our kids compete in cross country and track. Eliza was on the track team as well as the Schaaf boys and my son. We have never known Eliza to cause any trouble in anyway. She is not loud, rude, or disruptive. Eliza is pleasant and kind and extremely quiet. My daughter has had Eliza in many of her classes in high school. When I asked my daughter about having Eliza in class she said she felt bad saying you really didn’t notice Eliza too much because she is so very quiet.

My understanding is that Eliza’s classmates are not the ones asking her to stop coming to class. It may be that this particular class of ceramic students is learning a lot more then just ceramics they are learning about life. They are learning that a person born with disabilities is not sitting around feeling sorry for herself and refusing to try in life. She is living her life at 110% and is to be admired for it and for her goals in continuing to try new things and grow.

When I attended SOU back in the 80s I met a gentleman in a wheelchair who had lost the ability to walk and was going to lose the ability to use his arms as his disease progressed. I learned from this man to never give up and not to feel sorry for myself. To count my blessings everyday and admire those who have it much harder then I do. We learn important lessons from the people we meet and not just in what the professors are teaching.

Being at SOU has been so important to Eliza and she is so proud of it. Just let her finish the class she has started. She has not been raised to be a quitter so please don’t make her feel like one now.

Dorothy Walsh

665 A St

Ashland OR 97520

__________________________________________________________

Dylana Garfas-Knowles, neighbor writes:November 15, 2010

To whom it may concern:

It has been brought to my attention that Eliza Schaaf has been withdrawn from her ceramics class at SOU only seven classes before the end of the term for reasons that seem to be untrue and discriminatory. I am shocked that an institution such as SOU would be unwilling to let students with disabilities engage in these classes and treat them in this way; not allowing for the accommodation request made by Eliza and her family.

The reasons that are listed in the certified letter from Alissa Arp for Eliza’s withdrawal are ones that could be solved if you allowed the accommodation request that was made by Eliza and her family. Why would the accommodation request be “a fundamental alteration of the course”? I think working with a specialized assistant would be a wonderful experience for Eliza, and in Alissa Arp’s words would, “allow [her] to engage in the course work”.

I truly hope that you reconsider the decision of the University in regards to Eliza’s education at SOU. She deserves access to education just as much as anyone else and I hope that you can help facilitate this for her.

Sincerely,

Dylana Garfas-Knowles

__________________________________________________________

Ed Hillard, Neighbor writes:
1450 Tyler Creek Road Ashland, OR 97520

November 13, 2010

Ms. Mary Cullinan, President

Southern Oregon University

1250 Siskiyou Boulevard

Ashland, OR 97520

Dear President Cullinan:

I have received an email from Ron Schaaf and Deb Evans concerning a wrong that has been done to their daughter Eliza. The wrong that has been done to Eliza is at its heart something that is now and has been for at least 40 years increasingly mind-boggling, the notion that a person with a disability is eliminated from an activity solely due to their disability. How could such a stupid thing occur among thinking people especially with such cruel effects? I have chosen the timeframe of forty years because that is my understanding of the approximate age of one key organization for this field, the Center for Independent Living in Berkeley, California.

The whole idea of the CIL was to mainstream people who had various kinds of physical or mental problems to let them fend in the broader world and to judge them on how they did on the objectives they set for themselves aside from considerations of their wheelchairs or other needs as their principal distinguishing traits. All this was prior to the Americans with Disabilities Act which has legally mandated such things as accessibility ramps for buildings, powered doors, etc. The whole idea was to look at human beings for their potential not their handicaps and to remove unreasonable obstacles for them.

Looking at human beings for their potential is a fundamental idea in college curricula dealing with the arts and sciences. I hold graduate and undergraduate degrees from the College of Letters and Science at U.C. Berkeley. I completed my studies there before the formation of the Center for Independent Living or the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act. (Does one ever complete one's studies in the areas of letters and science?) However, as old as my experience is I am certain that at Berkeley no one who was an active, enthusiastic participant in an arts class and who regularly attended all classes would have ever received from the Dean of the College of Letters and Science a letter such as the one your Dean has written to Eliza. This brings me back to the theme of "mind-boggling" not to mention the question: what century the particular academic institution that hired the person who spawned such a letter is operating in. I submit that you would have to go back not to the twentieth but perhaps to the nineteenth century to find a comparable personal judgement such as has been exercised by Dean Alissa Arp in this case.

The core value of CIL (and ADA for that matter) is that, when unreasonable obstacles to access are mitigated, people are enabled in the world at large and contributions can be expected of them. As neighbors of Ron Schaaf and Deb Evans over the last decade, we have witnessed the courage and imagination that Eliza brings to her life and the support she has received from her family and the Greensprings community. Her approach has always seemed to be one of emphasizing what she can do rather than being limited by the obstacles life has presented her. Eliza only seeks to be a contributing member to the broader world. It is shocking and sad that forty years after society, not to mention the academic world, has decided that people with problems like the ones Eliza has to deal with should be enabled, that we all may benefit from such enablement, there still exists inside some institutional environments people with limited vision and the power to say, "No, it shall not be." I truly think that the disability in this instance lies with SOU, not Eliza.

I hope that some reason will prevail to right this cruel wrong. I hope that Dean Arp gets a chance to publicly apologize to Eliza. She is owed one. I would leave you with a final thought. I am of the Vietnam generation. Many people who came back from Vietnam were emotionally, physically or mentally wounded. They became advocates for things like the Center for Independent Living and the Americans with Disabilities Act mainly because they brought such problems into the mainstream of American life. We are now passing through foreign wars that will lead to many thousands of people returning to their communities with similar wounds. (Head wounds and their consequences may actually be present in a larger percentage of the surviving returnees from these latest wars.) Ashland, Medford and the Rogue Valley are such communities. What does the treatment that Dean Arp, speaking I assume for the SOU administration and faculty, has given Eliza say for SOU's ability to incorporate and contribute to the further enabling as future citizens of these wounded soldiers?

After learning about what had happened to Eliza I did a little research trying to understand more about Down Syndrome and the arts. It's kind of heartening. I encourage you to do the same. Google works well for this. One site in particular that caught my eye was www.witzmountain.com/2012_Downart.html which describes what's going on at the Mexican School of Down Art, where you find quotations such as, "their limitations enable them to see the world in a way you and I don't." What else is art about? It's about the potential.

I hope you will have the opportunity to reexamine the actions and words of Dean Arp and to correct them and ensure they don't have a chance of occurring again in some other, similar situation.

Respectfully,

Ed Hillard

___________________________________________________________

Pam Greenblatt, family friend writes:
Mary Cullinan, President, Southern Oregon University

Churchill Hall 125

1250 Siskiyou Boulevard

Ashland, OR 97520

Dear Ms Cullinan,

I would like to add my voice in support of Eliza Schaaf completing her ceramics class at SOU. I am a community member, a mother of three daughters, one of which attended SOU, a friend of the Schaaf family, and an allied health professional.

I have lived in Ashland since the late 80’s and have always been impressed with SOU. I have watched the school evolve and grow in the years I have lived here, and have watched with interest as the administration solved the many challenges it has faced to become the successful and well respected school it is today. From the access of people with two year trade degrees to four year programs, to facing the financial challenges colleges experience in this recession, to the outreach to veterans programs, SOU has shown itself as a University that is able to think outside of the proverbial box and solve problems in a creative way that meets the needs of the students, the school, and the surrounding community.

Eliza Schaaf is a student who, like all of your students has applied to your SOU to follow her dreams. Eliza is not a traditional student. She and her family have worked hard to find a way that Eliza can be successful in her ceramics class. She has completed 13 classes and wishes to complete the remaining 6. It has been stated that Eliza’s needs are causing an interruption in the class instruction. It has also been stated that the family is ready to do any and all that is required to assist in Eliza’s success. I believe SOU is fully capable of finding a creative way to allow Eliza to complete her class with dignity. The impact of your decision will not only help Eliza in her personal journey on a road that is unmistakably rocky, but also gain the respect of her many college age friends and their parents who have watched the Schaaf family all these years raise their daughter to work beyond her limitations and find a place in our community.

I urge you to look into this matter immediately, as the next class is Monday, and Eliza has projects to finish.

Thank you for your time and your careful consideration of this matter.

Respectfully,

Pam Greenblatt

_________________________________________________________

Hannah Graf Evans, 1st cousin of Eliza writes:

To Whom It May Concern:

I am shocked and concerned at the recent administrative decision made which terminated Eliza Schaaf’s enrollment at SOU. Let me take this moment to speak on behalf of my cousin Eliza. To label her as unworthy of pursuing education is frankly offensive; no one seeking education should be denied that right, especially Eliza. She has always been incredibly ambitious, and has certainly never let the fact that she has Down Syndrome ‘get in her way’ as your recent decision seemed to suggest. As one of eight cousins, Eliza was never treated as ‘disabled’ because there was no reason for her to be. Even in a family with two rambunctious younger brothers, she is able to assert herself very clearly as the older sister, and indeed also as the oldest of all of the cousins. It is this ambitious spirit, her incredible kindness and overall audacity that I am saddened that SOU is not willing to give her the chance to show.

I see the decision to terminate Eliza Schaaf as an unjust jump to the conclusion that because Eliza has Down Syndrome, she is not capable nor worthy of your education. Eliza has wonderful things to offer, and SOU should feel incredibly lucky to have her. I urge you to reconsider your decision, for what is the purpose of a university if not to teach strong-minded students?

Sincerely,

Hannah Graf Evans

__________________________________________________________

Joseph Evans, cousin writes:

Dear Mary Cullinan:

I have read with dismay the University's recent reversal of its prior decision to allow Eliza Schaaf attend and audit an Introduction to Ceramics class at USO. I know that you have now received a number of communications attesting to Eliza's character, her capabilities and interest in learning, and the apparent affinity which has developed among Eliza and her classmates. I have also read some of the correspondence, and regulations promulgated by the University, directly related to Eliza's summary dispatch from attending classes. I find the conflicts in these documents and facts, with respect to the conduct of a public institution of higher learning, to very discouraging indeed.

I expect it's likely that in a case such as this, the first place the University turns is to counsel, whose task it becomes to review and interpret the relevant law on the topic of disadvantaged students and to present an opinion, which the institution then acts upon. In many cases I've experienced, once counsel is consulted, it becomes the obligation of the institution to issue the reflexive response, less someone be criticized, either for inaction, or for acting against the advice of counsel. USO's letter of October 19, to Eliza Schaaf carries just such a tone.

Efforts to develop a more thoughtful and appropriate response could have saved a great deal of time and anguish for both the Schaaf household, as well as the University. My hope is that the visible leader of the institution, you might recognize the awkward appearance of the course of events surrounding Eliza to date, and for the sake of Eliza, as well as the institution's good name, fashion a more positive and compassionate response on behalf of your students and faculty.

The practical details reveal that for thirteen weeks, Eliza Schaaf was a participant in your Introduction to Ceramics class. Her mother was allowed to dutifully attend each of those classes, in order to assure Eliza's involvement in the class, and to provide Eliza with interpretation in the event of any uncertainty about what she was asked to do as a student. From the perspective of the classroom (and as educators, the ultimate concern is what is going on in the classroom), no incident or stated objection to Eliza's presence in the class rose to a practical level of concern, as implied in the October 19 missive. Eliza bonded with classmates, and had the support of her instructor.

So she successfully attended 13 classes, more than 2/3 of the content of the semester's course, but was not permitted to complete the remaining six classes. Consequently, it is not difficult to hold these facts up to the October 13 letter and question what form of discrimination is being put into practice here? And how inappropriately late in the process to conclude such an evaluation of any student among those admitted to a class in an institution of higher learning?

I encourage you and your administration to review this case again. Admit to yourselves at minimum, the egregious time delays in your documented decision process. Admit to yourselves that a constructive alternative to interrupting a class where an auditing student seemed to be able to perform with success and personal satisfaction, indicates the need to at least allow the student to complete the course.

In the event you choose to prevent Eliza from attending classes in subsequent semesters, your correspondence certainly demonstrates that is the University's prerogative. But in the meantime you risk unnecessary discord among participants in a class not documentably marred by such sentiment for 13 weeks. You subject the institution's good name and reputation to unnecessary blemish.

Sincerely,

Joseph Evans

__________________________________________________________

Becky and Josh Marvil, Aunt and Uncle to Eliza write:

Dear Ms. Cullinan:

We are writing to add our voices and support for our niece Eliza Schaaf. I'm sure you've received many emails of consternation, disappointment, and dismay regarding the fact that your institution is reluctant to be more inclusive for a curious, thoughtful, and motivated student. I hope you recognize the volume of support on Eliza's behalf as a clear indication that SOU needs to re-consider its decision and its policies.

We can only imagine you are in a difficult position - supporting a faculty/staff decision vs. allowing Eliza to continue with her class. However, one does not become president of a university unless they possess a unique mix of intellect, integrity, and leadership. This is a time for leadership. We urge you to do the right thing and invite Eliza to return. It will speak volumes about SOU and their commitment to education, diversity, and the community.

Sincerely,

Becky and Josh Marvil

___________________________________________________________

Karen Starchvick, President, Stand For Children writes:

Dear President Cullinan

I am writing regarding the dismissal of the above referenced student from her ceramics class at SOU.

While I understand your desire to have those below you handle this matter, I believe the decision to not allow Eliza to complete her class (already half over) is setting a very undesirable precedent that promotes exclusion in the university. As a publicly funded university, I believe SOU must make any accommodation within reason for Eliza to participate.

Having read the arguments cited in Eliza's dismissal letter, it appears to me that the issues presented were all easily accommodated by having Eliza's mother serve as Eliza's facilitator in the classroom. The complaints seem to stem from the first two weeks of class, when Eliza's mother was told not to participate. If Deb Evan's had attended the gallery visitation with the students for example, she could have easily corrected Eliza's continued touching of the art pieces, or certainly held her hand when crossing the street.

I am equally surprised at the unwillingness of the University to address the issues with the parents, and find a solution. This is especially troubling when the parents went to such great lengths to communicate with the University up front regarding Eliza's disability, including their visit to the Disability Resources Office, and Deb Evan's signing up to be a personal assistant for Eliza in the classroom. The fact that the dismissal letter was dated October 19th, approximately one week after the parents met with Laura O'Bryon, Sue Walsh and Vicki Purslow is also disturbing. It was at this October 11th meeting that a decision was reached to switch Eliza to 'audit' status, and find an art student to serve as facilitator. Deb also expressed at this meeting the desire to continue to be a personal assistant for Eliza in the classroom. It appears that the decision to dismiss Eliza had already been reached prior to the meeting with the parents on October 11th, and despite the good dialogue and changes that were made during that meeting, the decision to dismiss went ahead anyway without any reasonable period of time in between.

I sincerely hope you will consider overruling this ill-informed decision, and allow Eliza the opportunity to finish her class as she so desires.

Sincerely,

Karen Starchvick

_________________________________________________________

Kate Sullivan, Eliza's former teacher at AHS writes:

Kate Sullivan

AHS

201 S Mountain Ave

Ashland, OR 97520

November 15, 2010

Dear President Cullinan and Dean Arp:

I am writing in response to Dean Arp’s letter dated October 19 and sent certified mail on November 9^th to student Eliza Schaaf notifying her of her involuntary withdrawal from the “Intro to Ceramics” course. I am a teacher at Ashland High School and have known Eliza and her family for three years. I have served as a math and life skills teacher and as a case manager for Eliza.

My understanding is that Eliza was originally enrolled as a non-admitted student in August, but in an Oct 11^th meeting was asked to switch to an auditing status. It is also my understanding that students who audit a class are not required to complete the coursework nor do they receive a grade. Subsequent to the Oct 11 meeting with Sue Walsh and Vicki Purslow, I am told that instructor Dr Strangfeld agreed to have Eliza continue in the class with Eliza’s mother, Deb, assisting Eliza as needed.

Since it was agreed upon that Eliza would continue to participate in this class on October 13, with Deb assisting Eliza on an as needed basis, and switching Eliza’s status to an auditing student, it was assumed by all involved that Eliza would be allowed to complete the class. The letter from Dean Arp arrived November 9 with no warning.

Eliza is a curious learner who possesses an excellent work ethic. She loves art and she loves learning. She does, however, require an assistant in the classroom. My understanding is that a personal attendant is allowed as an accommodation for students who require assistance. I do know that Eliza was greatly enjoying this class and that she completed her assignments with tremendous enthusiasm. Eliza also felt a sense of accomplishment and confidence, was connecting with her fellow classmates, and learning new skills. Eliza is a life-long learner committed to her education. She has been devastated by this decision.

I strongly advocate that the decision to withdraw Eliza from “Intro to Ceramics” be reversed and that she be allowed to complete the course.

Sincerely,

Kate Sullivan

__________________________________________________________

Kathe Nabielski

(Past Educational Assistant to Eliza 2009-2010) writes:

Mary Cullinan, President, SOU

Churchill Hall 125

1250 Siskiyou Blvd.

Ashland, OR 97520

Alissa Arp, Dean. College of Arts and Sciences, SOU

College of Arts and Sciences

1250 Siskiyou Blvd.

Ashland, OR 97520

Dear Ms. Cullinan and Ms. Arp,

I am writing in response to your decision to exempt Eliza Schaaf from

auditing "Intro to Ceramics" class she has more than half way completed.

Please reconsider your decision in her best interest and allow her to

complete the remainder of the quarter. Participation in peer equivalent

environments like the SOU ceramics course is Eliza's style of learning. No

one stops learning and being with age appropriate peers is one way Eliza

continues to thrive.

Sincerely, Kathe Nabielski

(Past Educational Assistant to Eliza 2009-2010)

__________________________________________________________

Kathleen Karlovich family friend writes:

Hi,

It's come to my attention that Eliza Schaaf has been involuntarily withdrawn from a Intro to Ceramics class that she was attending at SOU. I have met Eliza numerous times. Her brother Wilder and my son ran together on the Ashland Cross Country team. Eliza was often there cheering them on and taking pictures. She seems like a gentle soul just wanting to participate in life just like the rest of us. I am wondering if there isn't a way to accommodate a person of her abilities and let her finish her class.

A few days ago I was thinking about how someone born with disabilities may perceive the world. Do they feel disadvantaged? Do they feel left out? I came to the conclusion that unless someone else made them feel that way, then the world might seem like an okay place anyhow.

It concerns me that even though it seems that Deb Evans and Ron Schaaf have offered every possible assistance to ensure that Eliza is not disruptive in her class, that she has been rejected because she's not on track with the rest of the students. But I wonder why she has to be. Why can't it be enough that she learns what she learns? She has a spirit that yearns for growth; her family is willing to support her in any way necessary; please let this young lady finish her class and continue to grow.

Sincerely,

Kathleen Karlovich

316 Avery Street

Ashland, OR 97520

541-324-9214

___________________________________________________________

Kelly Strickland, family friend writes:

Kelly Strickland

1040 Trinity Ave.

Seaside, CA 93955

Kmcmullen66@gmail.com

November 13, 2010

Dear SOU administrators, faculty and students,

This letter is in response to SOU’s termination of Eliza Schaaf’s enrollment in a ceramics class. As an Early Childhood Special Education Teacher for the past 9 years, I am appalled. I also have known Eliza from the day she was born and she inspired me to become a special education teacher.

In reading letters and e-mails from both Eliza and her parents, it appears that the other students are supportive of Eliza’s different way of learning and have appreciated here input throughout the semester. Eliza is an amazing young woman who has accomplished a lot in her short life. Her love of learning and the pride she takes in her achievements is something to nurture. The termination of her enrollment has been both confusing and upsetting for her. The comments about SOU’s inability to make the necessary accommodations for her success due to her “intellectual” disability felt like a knife in my heart. I can only imagine how they made Eliza feel.

My friends who have attended SOU in the past always said they felt like it was a community, not just a college. They too would be appalled at this decision. It is my hope that SOU administrators will reconsider their decision as soon as possible so that Eliza will be allowed to complete her projects with her fellow SOU students.

Eliza deserves this chance and I think the flood of support from family, friends and fellow students will make you rethink your decision.

Sincerely,

Kelly Strickland

______________________________________________________________

Maureen Ash, family friend writes:

Baldur Farm

N7659 950^th St.

River Falls, WI 54022

13 November 2010

Alissa Arp, Dean College of Arts and Sciences, SOU

1250 Siskiyou Boulevard

Ashland, OR 97520

Dear Dean Arp,

We live at a distance from our friends Ron Schaaf and Deb Evans. When their first child, Eliza, was born, we were very happy for them—until we learned that Eliza had Down Syndrome. I remember the note I sent to them with Eliza’s welcome gift. I expressed my sorrow and sympathy and disappointment for them and all that I thought they must be experiencing.

I remember the note Deb sent me in response. She thanked me for the gift and for my concern but was plain that they were NOT sad or disappointed. They loved their new daughter and were thrilled at her birth. They understood they would be having some experiences outside the norm and looked forward to the challenges. Mainly, they loved and were proud of their little Eliza.

That was Eliza’s first gift to me. I’d grown up in a time when children with learning disabilities went to special classrooms and were kept apart from “normal” students. I never got to know a child with Down Syndrome.

Shortly after Eliza’s birth we moved to Wisconsin. Our neighbors were a family with a daughter of middle-school age who has Down Syndrome. Because of Eliza I was able to see how Erica was loved and accepted in her family. In no time at all I saw why—she’s lovely, funny, and loving.

My children attended school with children of various abilities, colors, predilections, and opinions. One day I mourned to my high-school age son that my friend Sue’s boy would have such a hard time in school because he has a genetic condition that will not allow him to grow taller than three feet. My son said, “Nah. If he goes to school like everyone else the other kids will love him. They’ll watch out for him.” And this is turning out to be the case. Once again, I had to learn.

The students in Eliza’s ceramics class are like my son. They have grown up with a variety of kids in their classrooms. I’m sure they expect this variety to continue through their lives. Certainly your university seeks diversity among its students; here you have an unusual young woman who meets the most basic requirement of any educational institution—she wants to learn. Through her efforts to do so she becomes an example, a teacher herself. It seems as if you are denying your students an important lesson in what it means to seek an education. Eliza’s example is another of her gifts to me and I hope you will allow her to give it to others at your school.

Maureen Ash

_________________________________________________________

Pat Alvord, former teacher of Eliza's at Pinehurst School writes:

Dr. Allissa Arp, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences

Southern Oregon University

1250 Siskiyou Blvd.

Ashland, Oregon 97520

November 14, 2010

Dear Dr. Arp,

I’m writing to express my disappointment over the news that my former student, Eliza Schaaf, was dropped from her ceramics class because the professor believed she was unable to perform up to the expected standards.

Certainly the professor was apprised of Eliza’s special needs when permission was granted for her to audit the class with an assistant. It seems terribly unfair, then, for this decision to be reversed.

As disturbing as the fact of the dismissal, is the manner in which it was conducted. The Schaaf family expressed to me their shock at the letter of termination. I take this to mean there was no discussion between Eliza, her mom, and the instructor about concerns that Eliza’s presence was negatively impacting the class. Shouldn’t that have occurred prior to a cold written list of reasons?

Please make it right with Eliza by permitting her to complete the class. Require more of her mom, if necessary, but allow Eliza to finish the course and not walk away with a feeling of rejection and failure. She’s terribly disappointed knowing she won’t be allowed to complete her projects And please don’t let this happen to other students in the future. If a handicapped learner is granted permission to audit a class with the necessary accommodations he/she ought to be allowed to complete the class unless their behavior is so offensive that it is impossible for other students to work under the circumstances. I know Eliza well. Her behavior has never been offensive nor has her presence in my classes hindered the learning of others.

If the other students were bothered by Eliza’s participation, I imagine they would have communicated this to the instructor who would have engaged Eliza and her mom in a discussion and passed the information on in a sensitive manner. It’s too hurtful to treat people this way.

I hope you’ll require the art professor to reverse this decision and allow Eliza to re-enter the class and complete the projects she’s invested her time and energy into. She deserves that respect.

Thank you for considering this request.

Sincerely,

Pat Alvord
_________________________________________________________

Peter Evans, cousin writes:

Peter A. Evans

836 Buck Lane

Haverford, PA 19041

610-649-1821

Peterharmo@gmail.com

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Mary Cullinan, President, Southern Oregon University
Churchill Hall 125
1250 Siskiyou Boulevard
Ashland, OR 97520

Dear President Cullinan:

I have a 13 year old son with autism. His name is Jamie and he lives at home with his two older brothers, his Mom & me. He is in the middle school at the Vanguard School where he has thrived as a learner since he was about 4 years old.

Jamie flew an airplane for the first time on Sunday afternoon. It was a beautiful fall day. He and his instructor Rob went through the pre-flight regimen for their Cessna 2-seater. They took off from the small airport where the flight school is based. An hour later they were back safe and sound. I called his mom to let her know. Then Jamie got out of the plane.

The look in his eyes at that moment is something I will remember vividly for the rest of my days. His eyes said “accomplishment”, “pride”, “joy”, “relief”, and “WOW!” all at the same time. We were transformed by that experience.

I was sorry to learn that Eliza Schaaf’s class participation at SOU has turned into something of a crash and burn. I don’t know most of the specifics, but I have certainly hit special needs speed bumps along the road to learning with Jamie and can sympathize with the challenges of educating those with special needs. I know Eliza as a treasured member of our large family, who has the support of an extraordinary nuclear family.

I implore you to do all that you can to witness the same look in Eliza’s eyes as I saw in Jamie’s eyes a couple of days ago. Rewards like that don’t come often and they don’t always come easily. Please try to ascend towards a transformational experience for Eliza and for SOU.

Holding you all in the Light:

Peter Evans

__________________________________________________________

Shauna Schober writes:

Mary Cullinan, President, Southern Oregon University
Churchill Hall 125
1250 Siskiyou Boulevard
Ashland, OR 97520

Nov. 15, 2010
Dear Ms. Cullinan,
I’m writing this letter to express my concern for how individuals with special needs are being treated on your campus, and also to express my joy at how well the internet provides information.
I’ll start with the internet. I had never heard of Ceramics 255, before this evening. I had also never heard of Eliza Schaaf, but tonight I want you to know that literally thousands of people know her name. I’m sure the University does not want to be associated with this sort of discrimination, I mean after all this is a CERAMICS class, and Eliza was auditing it.
So I have to ask…REALLY? REALLY you are going to allow this to happen? You are going to allow this human being who wants to participate and learn to be pushed out? I cannot believe that Southern Oregon University, a school that is trying so hard to be the new up and coming University in Oregon; to get higher enrollment would do this, especially knowing the power of the internet.
Some of the most amazing artists in history have had some sort of disability, I imagine they had someone who was willing to stand up for them, who was willing to go to the person with the power and ask that question. I understand that there are “rules and regulations” about allowing people with disabilities to participate in higher learning “if they do not possess the cognitive ability” as written in the letter to Eliza, but isn’t that just a cop out? This institution is for HIGHER LEARNING, I ask you how this individual will be able to get this higher learning? Perhaps another school will accommodate her? I hope so.
I also wonder though, if a person say in a wheel chair couldn’t reach the ceramics wheel to do the “project” would the University also kick them out, with a “full refund of course”?
This all just sounds too 1950’s to me. At this moment in time I am ashamed to live in the same general area as the University, I cannot imagine the fallout this could potentially have for our area and your University.
Eliza may be one girl, with a disability, but wouldn’t you know it, she knows how to press “send.” It used to be that if someone had a bad experience they would tell 10 people about it, today with social media, the numbers are unfathomable.
I imagine that by this time no one thought that a simple letter to a student who “didn’t matter and couldn’t handle ceramics” (I know that wasn’t written in the letter to her, but believe me, it was read LOUD AND CLEAR) wouldn’t turn into anything, I mean heaven forbid a ceramics teacher be uncomfortable and have to spend a little extra time with a student, or perhaps take the time to speak with her advocates and get someone in the class to help. I know it seems so foreign, but really I’m sure this would have been a much simpler route.
I only have a BA in Sociology from the University of Oregon, so I may not understand all the dynamics of the events that took place, but I do know one thing about people and groups and discrimination, it is usually the weakest members of society who will gang up and bully those who need our help the most, and I want to say, that in this day and age, I’m shocked that you would want your University anywhere near the potential label of “Bully.”
Eliza has something to teach us all, look at what she has inspired, and you all thought she couldn’t even make clay pots. Shameful.
Don’t discount Eliza; never underestimate the power of ONE.
I hope this correspondence finds you well, I hope that in this instance you will use your power…the power of ONE, to make things right.

Sincerely,

Shauna Schober

A concerned blogger, author, and person who knows how to press send multiple times on the internet. Never underestimate the power of one.

__________________________________________________________

Susan Tolner writes:

11/15/2010

Dear SOU administrators and faculty,

My name is Susan Tolner, I am writing on behalf of Eliza Schaaf. I have been informed that Eliza’s enrollment at your school has been terminated.

I have to say it is in very poor taste, to say the least, of a college which is well known for it’s “Special Education” course, to ask a student who “some” might consider “Special Ed,” to leave this school.

My son, as Eliza, has just started school with you this year. Learning of this situation has made his father and I reconsider his further enrollment.

I know Eliza through my sister, who worked with her at Ashland High School and through many walks for the Down Syndrome Association.

Eliza has taught me a new meaning of the words dedication and commitment.

Just this year at the “Buddy walk,” she spoke and blew me away with her knowledge, willingness to achieve and heart felt spirit! She is a joy and pleasure to be around. I can’t imagine it is any other way for her peers. She brings love and light to everyone she comes in contact with.

The fact that this is taking place is appalling to me! My suggestion to you all would be to immediately drop all of this and let Eliza come back to school and enjoy life, as we all do, without having to worry about someone looking at “us” differently.

We are all unique in our own way. Before looking at someone else in a demeaning way, try looking in the mirror first and ask yourself, “am I perfect?” I am certain you will see, that you are not!

I stand behind, beside and with Eliza and her family with any choice they make to ensure that this is taken care of.

I hope you reconsider this decision.

Thank you,

Susan Tolner

stolner@msn.com

541-840-8643

________________________________________________________

Toni Evans, cousin writes:

November 9, 2010

Dear Friend,

    I read with concern the account of how Eliza’s participation in the ceramics course was terminated by SOU. I teach science to eighth grade students at Sandy Spring Friends School in Maryland and understand the challenges and rewards we experience by working with people with learning differences. Recognizing that I don’t have first hand knowledge of the situation, I was wondering if you could help me understand certain actions by the school.
    I’d like to know what your policy is with regard to admittance of students with learning differences. Eliza was admitted, and knowing how Deb and Ron and Eliza have worked with complete transparency and a spirit of partnership with her previous learning institutions, I feel sure SOU was fully apprised of her situation and needs. Why admit without a commitment to serve?
    It is unclear how Eliza’s presence substantively altered the curriculum and the experience of the other students. Were there complaints behind the scene? Were the concerns communicated in such a way and time that Eliza was given an opportunity to respond?
    What exactly is your policy and practice on termination of student participation in a course, in particular with regard to a student auditing a course? Are there not steps where a student is informed of how they should change behavior to meet the standard? Why not allow Eliza to complete the course?
    With regard to the letter sent to Eliza notifying her of her termination, I have another question. Setting aside for now the emotional devastation likely to be engendered by the receipt of such a communication, I do wonder, if Eliza has the cognitive capability to grasp the communication in that letter, how is she not cognitively capable of participating in a ceramics course?
    Thanks for your time and consideration.

    Sincerely,
    Toni Evans

_________________________________________________________

Bob Julian Jr., coach, Ashland High School writes:

Mary Cullinan, President, Southern Oregon University
Churchill Hall 125
1250 Siskiyou Boulevard
Ashland, OR 97520

Dear Dr. Cullinan,

I am writing in support of Eliza Schaaf to be allowed to complete her Intro to Ceramics course at Southern Oregon University.

Proper due process did not seem to be followed in her case. Why wasn't an earlier email, letter, or phone call placed to outline the concerns, to give Eliza's parents a chance to remedy the alleged situation?

In addition, there wasn't any defined evidence provided that the other students' experience in class was being negatively affected by her presence there.

The right thing to do in this circumstance would be to allow Eliza to finish out her term, then re-evaluate/define the process and criteria for allowing students with significant disabilities in regular classes at SOU.

Sincerely,

Bob Julian Jr.
Teacher/Coach
Ashland School District

_________________________________________________________

Ann Marie Hutson

Executive Director

Down Syndrome Association of Southern Oregon writes:

First of all, let me say that I've been very proud of Southern Oregon University and what it accomplishes in its educational setting. I spent a year getting my Elementary Education Credential at your institution and learned from the best and the brightest.

Deb Evans, Ron Schaaf and their daughter, Eliza, are friends. They are friends and members of the board of the Down Syndrome Association of Southern Oregon. I was hired in May, 2010 to be their first executive director.

In these past months I have heard story after story of the many battles parents have to fight. From getting proper medical attention to getting their child's educational needs met. In 2010, children and adults with Down syndrome are STILL NOT included in our society.

And then I learn of this unbelievable decision SOU has made. All Eliza wants to do is play with clay and go to college. At this year's Buddy Walk she gave an inspirational speech, telling her friends that they, too, can make their dreams come true. Her dream was to go to college.

She has described to me the process her teacher uses, asking the students to think of a feeling and create something that expresses that feeling. I was very impressed with the collaborative process in the classroom. And I was also impressed by the artwork that Eliza created. It was truly a learning experience for her. Isn't that what SOU's mission statement is all about ... educating students.

Let me tell you about inclusion. First of all, the opposite of inclusion is segregation. We battle daily to have these children included in the classroom setting. When children with intellectual disabilities are given their right to a free and appropriate education, they learn at an amazing pace. The person with Down syndrome today is so much different than they were 30 years ago. First of all in 30 years their life span has gone from age 25 to 60. Why do you suppose that is? It's the simple rule of early education ... stimulation. That's why when babies are taught sign language they end up with an IQ 15 points higher than non-signers. Their brain has been stimulated. This concept holds true for folks with Down syndrome. Not only is Eliza's life enhanced by being educated with typically developing peers, she also teaches her classmates the value of the individual. If asked, I'm sure they will say that they've received an education also -- that there are all kinds of people in the world who deserve their respect.

I hope you and the university will change your decision and allow Eliza to continue with her pottery class.

And, I'll end with a quote that a professor at the University of Missouri once said to me a few weeks before receiving my degree in teaching and something I have never forgotten ... "You can teach anyone anything." It has stayed with me all these years and reminds me to teach to the ability of the student.

Sincerely,

Ann Marie Hutson

Executive Director

Down Syndrome Association of Southern Oregon

541.776.9805

mail@dsaso.org

__________________________________________________________

Trudy Knowles, Ed.D.
Full Professor, Education Department writes:

Dear President Cullinan,

I am writing to you in support of Eliza Schaaf and to express my disappointment at the way Southern Oregon University has treated her and her family. I am a college professor and understand the responsibility you have for the education of all the students at your university.

I also understand the difficulties inherent in trying to provide services for those who don’t fit the profile of the perfect student. But the reality is that the job of a public institution is to provide learning opportunities for the public – for all the public – not just the ones you like or who give you no challenges. We have students who can’t see, who can’t hear, who can’t walk, who can’t communicate verbally, who can’t relate socially, who can’t focus. And we have students who think in different ways, who process differently and difficultly, who can’t integrate or retain knowledge. And we do our best to educate them. They are after all and most of all, human beings who have a right to dignity, respect, and happiness.

Eliza simply wanted to take a ceramics class. Her parents asked for an aide and her mother was there with her every class. And your university simply chose to remove her from class.

I have known Eliza since the day she was born and have known her parents and her extended family for much longer. They care deeply for their children and want Eliza to have a complete and fulfilling life. They have filled her life with opportunities and possibilities and dreams. She has held on to those possibilities and never let anything get in her way of trying something new.

Eliza has been confronted with many challenges in her life. Some of those challenges were the result of her intellectual disability. Most of those challenges have come from unaware, frightened and insensitive individuals who just couldn’t find a way to accept someone who doesn’t quite meet their definition of what people should be like.

I’m sure Eliza has been confronted with her share of cruelty. She doesn’t deserve it – particularly from an institution that should know better.

Eliza simply wants to complete the course. And then she might want to take another. You should bend over backwards to make sure that will happen.

Sincerely,

Trudy Knowles, Ed.D.
Full Professor, Education Department
Westfield State University
Westfield, MA 01086

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18 MORE LETTERS to SOU in SUPPORT of ELIZA

Rachel Graf Evans said...

November 15th, 2010

To Whom It May Concern:

My name is Rachel Graf Evans and I am writing in regards to the recent decision to terminate Eliza Schaaf’s enrollment in “Intro to Ceramics” at Southern Oregon University. I am appalled by this decision and strongly urge you to reconsider it; if I am not mistaken, Eliza has been an enthusiastic and engaged student, she has never been disruptive, and she has never demanded or required any additional support because of her disability that would merit such a decision. If there is any evidence to the contrary, then it should be explained to Eliza and her parents; as it is now, this decision has come as a large, unfounded shock. This is unacceptable.

Eliza is a vibrant, sincere, kind, and beautiful individual who deserves the utmost respect; I am grieved that anyone – especially a reputable institution such as SOU – would act with such blatant discrimination. An institution should revel in the opportunity to teach such an earnest and dedicated student. Surely those are the qualities you wish for in all SOU students? The decision to deny her the opportunity to learn reflects quite poorly on SOU.

I stand in solidarity with Eliza, her family, friends, classmates and all that care deeply about her and her well-being. I hope this injustice is remedied expediently.
Sincerely,
Rachel Graf Evans

November 15, 2010 6:38 PM

Melissa Graf-Evans said...

Dear Dean Arp:
I am writing to ask that you and others at Southern Oregon University reconsider the recent decision to prohibit Eliza Schaaf from auditing the remaining 6 ceramics classes of the semester. It does not seem like a very high price for the institution to pay in order for Eliza to be able to finish with pride and satisfaction a class which has meant a great deal to her.
I so hope that you and your colleagues can recalibrate your current thinking to allow the institution to respond to this individual with compassion. In fact, the moral education of every student at SOU will be enhanced by your modeling as an institution the importance of showing respect and compassion for all individuals. If your students see and then follow that example as they move out into the world, you will truly have fulfilled your responsibilities as an educator.
Thank you for reconsidering this decision.

Sincerely yours,
Melissa Graf-Evans

International Student Coordinator
Teacher of German, French, ESOL
Westtown School

November 15, 2010 7:11 PM

Cindy Trueblood said...

Cindy Trueblood- Nov. 14 letter to SOU President

Dear President Cullinan,

I was surprised and upset when I recently learned of your administration’s decision to withdraw Eliza Schaaf from the Ceramics 255 course at SOU. I am writing to ask you to reverse this decision so that Eliza can continue attending this class through the end of the semester. I believe mistakes were made in the SOU process and that Eliza’s status as a ceramics student should be reinstated immediately.

I would not expect SOU to make the decision to exclude Eliza from ceramics class lightly, therefore I have to believe that the University administrators involved in the decision felt there was a compelling reason to withdraw Eliza from the class. The implication is that Eliza’s dismissal serves a purpose, i.e., that it benefits the University, the other students, or the professor in some way. However, after reading the letter that Dean Alissa Arp sent to Eliza and reviewing other information provided to me, I do not believe that your staff assessed the situation fairly or accurately. I find myself mystified about how this decision to exclude Eliza from this class was made. I do not believe that there is a convincing case that Eliza’s presence in the class is “disruptive” or that “the accommodations requested would entail a fundamental alteration of the course” or that Eliza’s presence in the class “inhibited the professor’s ability to effectively deliver the curriculum” as claimed in the letter sent by Dean Arp. I can only conclude that there was a flawed implementation of policies.

I understand that there were some concerns raised early in the semester when Eliza and her assistant (her mother/my sister Deb Evans) were adjusting to new roles and adapting to a college course. Eliza and her mother listened to these concerns carefully and addressed them. There were no signs from the teachers or students to indicate that Eliza’s presence was interfering with the class, so they believed that any initial concerns had been adequately addressed. The next communication was a letter (dated October 19 and received November 8) stating that Eliza had been withdrawn from the class, effective immediately. This decision was apparently based on observations made in the first week or two of classes. There is no indication that there were follow-up observations made to determine how the situation shifted over time, nor any evidence of inquiries made to the students or the professor to determine whether Eliza’s presence in the class has been disruptive during the last month.

Eliza is a wonderful, capable young woman with great enthusiasm for learning. She was actively engaged in the Ceramics class and the experience was of great value to her. In this class, and in her high school classes, she has demonstrated her ability to work hard and learn alongside typically developing peers.

Try to imagine the hurt you would feel if you were told that you were not allowed to continue auditing a class because your presence was disruptive, when neither the teacher nor your classmates gave any indication that your presence was problematic. What a confusing and hurtful message to receive. I believe that Eliza has been judged and discriminated against by people who have not taken the time to get to know her in the Ceramics classroom environment. I strongly believe that such a damaging decision should not have been made from preliminary observations. Additional observations would have shown how she progressed as a member of the ceramics class over time.

Eliza deserves the courtesy and respect of being allowed to finish her ceramics class this semester. Please open your mind and heart; I believe that you will see that Eliza has been treated unfairly by the administration of SOU. Eliza, and her many friends and family, will be grateful to you for your careful consideration of this matter.

Sincerely,

Cindy Trueblood

November 15, 2010 11:11 PM

Diarmuid McGuire said...

From: Diarmuid McGuire
Date: November 15, 2010 3:40:01 PM PST
To: Letters Mail Tribune
Bcc: Deb Evans & Ron Schaaf , Pam Marsh
Subject: SOU expels Eliza Schaaf

To the editor,

Last week, Southern Oregon University expelled Eliza Schaaf from a ceramics class that she was auditing. Why? Strip away the bureaucratic language and the reason was simple: Eliza has Down Syndrome.

In the past, SOU has been flat-footed in its community relations. Evicting the annual Holiday Crafts Faire was inconsiderate. Now our higher education leadership has gone beyond insensitivity. They appear to be downright mean.

SOU President Mary Cullinan and Dean Alissa Arp may have met their match in Eliza Schaaf. With help from her family, friends and community, Eliza has consistently zoomed beyond society's expectations for a young person with Down Syndrome. Last spring, Eliza earned her diploma from Ashland High School. This past summer, she addressed a crowd of 400 at the Buddy Walk, an event that supports Down Syndrome children and their families. Now she is determined to attend college. I expect that she will fulfill her ambition. Neither SOU administrators nor any other doubters will stop her.

Some of Eliza's fellow SOU students are planning a campus rally to protest her expulsion. Her many friends in Ashland and elsewhere are rallying via a web site: www.elizaschaaf.com. If you share their admiration for Eliza's courage and determination, I hope you will join them.

Diarmuid McGuire
Ashland
----------------------------------
Diarmuid McGuire
Green Springs Inn
Mountain Cabins LLC
696 Siskiyou Blvd #1
Ashland, OR 97520-2186
Cell 541-890-6435
FAX 541-482-4742
mcdiarmuid@me.com
www.greenspringsinn.com
(c) Diarmuid McGuire 2010

November 15, 2010 11:43 PM

November 16, 2010 12:37 AM

Amy Cuddy said...

November 14, 2010

Dr. Mary Cullinan
President
Southern Oregon University

Dear Dr. Cullinan:

SOU’s website has this to say About SOU: "With smaller classes and individual attention from faculty, you won’t be a number at Southern Oregon University ... We are committed to making the educational experience unique and enriching for all of our students."

Sounds good. But is it true?

I am writing today because I am dismayed that SOU is not walking the talk, when it comes to Eliza Schaaf. Surely a small university – one that promises “individual attention” and that “you won’t be a number” – can find a way to accommodate a young woman with a strong desire to learn and with a history of success in so doing at Ashland High School, one of the top high schools in the country (according to U.S. News and World Report).

Eliza, who has Down syndrome, has spent nearly her entire K-12 life in “regular” classrooms, as opposed to “special” classrooms, and she has succeeded in these classrooms. By that I mean she has learned and grown and accomplished her goals, even if those goals are somewhat different from those of her more “typical” peers.

Currently she is two thirds of the way through an Introduction to Ceramics class, which she is auditing as a non-enrolled student, and this past week has been told that – with only seven classes left to complete – she is no longer welcome in the classroom or at SOU.

Since she is auditing the class, academic rigor should not be an issue: there is no need for the teacher to assess Eliza’s comprehension of the subject material. Knowing Eliza as I do, I can’t imagine that her presence is a detriment to the classroom experience. And knowing her parents as I do, I feel certain that they are willing to do almost anything to make this work both for their daughter and for the entire class.

Let me say a little bit about how I know Eliza. For a number of years I have volunteered to be on the community panels that hear and assess the senior project presentations at Ashland High School.

I have been a panelist for at least twenty seniors, all randomly assigned to me and including Eliza Schaaf last year. In general the presentations are excellent, as one might expect of Ashland High School seniors. While Eliza was understandably nervous about her presentation and not as quick on her feet as her peers, when panelists fired questions at the seniors presenting, no student that I have assessed has prepared more for his/her presentation than Eliza did. It was clear that she had spent a tremendous amount of time working on her Power Point, rehearsing her remarks, and producing a product (gourmet desserts) to demonstrate the skills she had acquired as a result of her senior project. I came home after her presentation and told my own teenagers that we could all learn something from Eliza’s commitment to excellence, dogged determination, and bravery.

More recently, I have been part of a volunteer crew charged with providing hospitality for two cross country meets in Lithia Park. Eliza has spent hours in my kitchen this fall, cutting bagels and fruit, side by side with the other adult volunteers. While she may not cut as many bagels per hour as the next person, she is extremely conscientious about her work and never complains. To suggest that she is unable to wash her hands without assistance in the ceramics lab is absurd – she has done that and much more in my kitchen. She may need some assistance and encouragement from time to time (and don’t we all?), but she needs nothing like what SOU’s termination of enrollment letter suggests in order for her to succeed.

I have been in Eliza’s company on numerous occasions over the past four to five years and have always found her to be polite, cooperative, respectful, and hard working. In addition, she and her family have taught me much about compassion. There is no doubt in my mind that Eliza can learn from her SOU classmates and professors and they from her.

Ashland is a small community, one that prides itself on tolerance and out-of-the-box thinking. If SOU truly wants to be part of the Ashland community, not an ivory tower, then the University will find a way to include a bright young woman – one who is a valued and contributing member of our community – who wants only to audit an introductory art class. She’s not asking for an A in calculus or for anything more than a chance to pursue her passion and for the opportunity to finish the class that she has started and into which has put tremendous effort for nearly two months now. How hard can it be to make that happen? Surely there’s a way to work this out, if all involved are thoughtful people and people of good will.

Legally SOU may not have to allow Eliza to continue to audit this class, but morally …

The university’s decision makes me fear for our collective humanity.

Please reconsider.

Sincerely,
Amy C. Cuddy

November 16, 2010 7:17 AM

Lauri Eisenhauer said...

Dr. Mary Cullinan,
I come to you very sad that this has yet happened again within our community. Why? Discrimination? because someone might look different or have a diagnoses other than typical? What is typical anyways? When is anyone of the typical race gonna get a clue on what is typical? No one is typical, everyone one of us is different. Some of us just dont have a lable put on us from birth. Eliza is not different, she is no different than any of us. She is a human being created by Gods hands,in gods image! She has graduated from elementary and Ashland High School. Eliza has blossemed into a beautiful, articulate, well rounded women. Now like all 20 something yr olds, She wants to experience college with her peers. Is this so wrong that she just wants to be like everyone else? This situation just makes me sick and disgusted and Typical people wonder why special ed. parents are so mad, it is because of crap like this. Eliza DESERVES every opportunity like everyone else! Please do the right thing and be the example for our communities here in the southern region. Please except Eliza into your school and classes. Take a stand against descrimination once and for all and help build the way for future generations to come. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Lauri Eisenhauer

November 16, 2010 8:48 AM

Sherri and James Bowland said...

SOU's recent decision regarding Eliza is ludicrous and appalling. We hope that the decision is reversed and an apology is given to Eliza and her family. We know SOU has recently been striving to make their presence known to Ashland and the United States- well, it puzzles us how such nation-wide attention as this can be doing anything good for public opinion or future enrollment. We are very embarrassed right now to have SOU part of our community. Please reconsider and reverse this decision ....it just wasn't right and hurts much more than just one life-long learner, one family. It was a misguided stab and offense against us all.

November 16, 2010 8:52 AM

Diana McCord said...

November 16, 2010

To Whom It May Concern at SOU:

I am the proud sister of an amazing young woman named Linda who has Down Syndrome. I am also proud to be friends with a few of Eliza Schaaf's cousins.

Until today, those two aspects of my life did not intersect. It's amazing how quickly two disparate elements of life can become connected.

My sister, Linda, is a gifted artist who works at a studio in upstate New York. Not only does she receive tremendous joy and satisfaction from her art, but she gives so much to the others who work in the studio with her.

I have not met Eliza before, but I can only imagine the same is true of her experiences with her ceramics class. I am sure that she learns so much and takes a great deal of satisfaction from all she is learning in the class, and I have to imagine that her classmates lives are also made richer for the experience of sharing the classroom with Eliza.

I urge you to reconsider your decision. For Eliza. For her classmates. And for many others, like my Linda, that you'll likely never meet.

Thank you,
Diana McCord

November 16, 2010 11:33 AM

Kathleen Manley said...

Dear Dr. Cullinan and Ms. Arp,

Expelling Eliza Schaaf from her ceramics class was an easy solution to what someone at SOU thought was a tough problem. However, Eliza is a tough young woman with many friends who see this situation not as a problem, but as an opportunity.

An opportunity to show us that you are above believing the stereotypic myths regarding the abilities of people born with Down Syndrome. Like the rest of us, given the opportunity and placed in an environment that challenges us, those with Down Syndrome will learn and thrive. Eliza has been in inclusive environments throughout her educational career, and has excelled. She has a devoted and skilled network of support in her family and friends. She is thoughtful, capable, cooperative and has a great sense of humor. By dismissing her as you have done, you are totally missing the point of being educators.

SOU has the opportunity to position itself in the world of higher education as a progressive, inclusive learning institution. Many people with disabilities have gone through inclusive K-12 educational models and now seek to continue learning. Why not? Because your professors can't handle someone who appears a little different? Who has a different learning style? For goodness' sake get a grant, develop a program and train your "educators" to effectively include people with disabilities. You do have a school of education, don't you? Adapt and grow with the times!

I constantly hear complaints from SOU about their budget and lack of funds. Here is a young woman who is PAYING to audit a class (which I understand means the professor doesn't have to evaluate her work) and you're turning her away. I believe Eliza is the first of a new generation of people like her who want to continue to learn. See the glass as half full, or the class(es) will be half full.

Meanwhile, let Eliza back into her class. I've read all the letters and the rules and knowing Eliza and her parents I don't see how Eliza (especially with Deb acting as her assistant) could possibly disrupt and/or change the curriculum of a beginning ceramics course.

I've been a member of two school boards, including Pinehurst School where Eliza was a student through eighth grade. I have a niece with Down Syndrome, a son in college and a son on an IEP in high school. I've known the Schaaf family for 7 years. This is more than Eliza Schaaf. It is a sea change, in which SOU will either drown or float.

Sincerely,
Dr. Kathleen Manley
skbenman@yahoo.com

November 16, 2010 11:14 PM

Ariel Felton said...

Although I do not know Eliza, the testimony provided in these letters from her family, friends and former teachers should be more than enough to merit a personalized reconsideration of her situation.

The university has an opportunity here to not only help educate an individual, Eliza, but the other students as well. By learning in a classroom of mixed abilities, they will be witness to a variety of learning styles and intellectual approaches to the subject. It will also offer the professor an opportunity to practice differentiated teaching, which is the coming wave in classroom structure.

Please reconsider your decision, and take it as a learning opportunity for your entire institution.

Sincerely,
Ariel Felton
Sun Valley, Idaho

November 17, 2010 9:47 AM

Brooke Beelsey said...

To President Cullinan and Dean Arp,

My name is Brooke Evans Beesley and I am writing on behalf of my cousin Eliza Schaaf, who was recently ordered to discontinue auditing her Ceramics class at SOU. I am saddened and disappointed to learn of this decision, but mostly I am confused. After reading a copy of the letter Eliza received from Dean Arp as well as accounts from the classroom, it sounds as though Dean Arp was misinformed. It seems that there are many possible avenues for resolving classroom issues (if there indeed are any) that most educators would look to before denying a student the right to learn.

I have worked with Eliza in many creative capacities, putting together plays, skits and music. I have always found her input to be interesting, informative and from a delightfully different perspective. I submit to you that any class would be lucky to have Eliza in their midst. I ask you, please reconsider your decision, and allow Eliza her right to an education.

Thank You,
Brooke Evans Beesley

November 17, 2010 10:18 AM

Lu Evans, Eliza's Grandma says:

LUCRETIA W. EVANS
500 E. Marylyn Avenue, Apt. H-123
State College, PA 16801
November 13, 2010

Mary Cullinan, President
Southern Oregon University
Churchill Hall 123
150 Siskiyou Blvd.
Ashland, OR 97520

Dear President Mary Cullinan:

It is with deep gratitude that I write to you on behalf of our beloved granddaughter, Eliza Evans Schaaf, who is enrolled this fall term in SOU’s Introduction to Ceramics course, at first for credit and now as one auditing the course, Eliza was accepted into the course in good faith and awareness of her situation, namely, that she has Down Syndrome, and would be learning as best she is able. Her parents have been open and honest about Eliza, clearing everything ahead of the beginning of the fall term and being in touch during the term.

Eliza has been thoroughly enjoying the course, thoroughly enjoying the opportunity to learn more about ceramics and to interact with teacher and fellow students. She has been welcomed, and supported by both.

It’s been a tremendous shock to Eliza, her parents and brothers, and to me her grandmother, as well as to other family members and friends, to learn that abruptly she has received a letter saying, in much too long and impersonal a manner, that she can no longer participate in the course. Something is amiss. I beseech you to look into the situation and to welcome Eliza back into the course for the rest of the fall term. With about two-thirds of the course completed and only six classes remaining, I sincerely hope that heartfelt apologies will be given to Eliza and that she will be welcomed back in a loving way.

Most sincerely,

Lucretia W. Evans
(cc: Allissa Arp)

November 17, 2010 9:56 PM

Jennifer Watson said...

Dr. Cullinan and Ms. Arp,

Bob Given has it right, Shame On U, S.O.U.. You have changed the name before so why not try again?
I was appalled and outraged, long with many others, to hear of Eliza's termination from S.O.U. I thought as a society we were trying to put discrimination behind us as an embarassing part of our countrys past. Guess not.

As a parent of a child with learning disabilities I know first hand what it is like to make sure your child is accepted and treated equally. I know what it is like to hold their hand and jump over the hurdles, bust through the road blocks and keep moving past the disappointments that come your way. I know all to well what it is like to share the fears, frustrations and tears with a child who has learning disabilities,it hurts. I also know what it feels like to share the joys and accomplishments with this same person, it feels great. I also know Eliza, her family and the wonderful community she lives in. I know they(we)will all continue to support her through this ordeal.

I have lived in the Rogue Valley for 20 years. I always took pride to have a university in our town, it was one of the deciding factors for our moving here. Today that pride has been tarnished.

I am not sure how SOU can right this wrong but at the very least a public apology is in order for Eliza, her family and our entire community. This has been a let down for many as well as a slap in the face for the town of Ashland. A town that has always celebtrated diversity.
I urge you to please stop this insanity. Isn't there enough ugliness in the world already?

Jennifer Watson
Proud parent of a child with learning disabilities and friend to Eliza and her family.

November 18, 2010 3:05 PM

GREEN SPRINGS BODYWORKS said...

Dr. Cullinan and Ms. Arp,

As an instructor at SOU for the past 30 years I am shocked and embarrassed in the manner in which Eliza Schaaf has been treated. Expelling her midterm was extremely hard on her. I suggest you right this wrong by welcoming her back next term.

The PE classes I teach have been a success all these years because I welcome students with diverse intellectual and physical abilities. For example I currently have a student who is confined to a wheelchair. It warms my heart to see the other students interact with her and we are all inspired by her commitment. It is a little extra work for me because I have to help her modify the workout and sometimes furnish her with different equipment but it is well worth the extra effort because we have all learned so much from this student.

Sincerely,
Jo Ann Cullumbine

November 19, 2010 11:27 AM

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62 Letters of Support

18 MORE LETTERS to SOU in SUPPORT of ELIZA