Autism program at Miramar's Glades Middle School gets rewards

Autism took center stage at Glades Middle School in Miramar as students received gifts and teachers were rewarded for their commitment.


BY EILEEN SOLER

Autistic children and their teachers at Glades Middle School in Miramar were treated to plenty of love last week by Pembroke Pines civic socialite Terry T. Sherman's Action on Autism charity.

Eighteen children each cuddled two or three furry stuffed animals while nine teachers and teaching assistants toted gift bags loaded with classroom supplies and personal cosmetics.

''This is the first time in my 10-year teaching career that anyone from the community showed us from the heart that they care about us,'' teacher Norma Menasche said.

Sherman, who was assisted by lifelong friend Ruby Waxman during the 30-minute giveaway at the school, said the charity is simply a way to show appreciation and support for a community of teachers and students that too often are ignored and unheralded.

It was Sherman's first charity venture outside her hometown of Pembroke Pines.

The charity, established in 2003 and approved by the Broward Education Foundation, provides annual cash and learning-tool donations directly to teachers of autistic programs at Pembroke Pines schools.

Extra gifts like toys for kids and perfume for teachers bring extra smiles.

The charity is an offshoot of Terry T. and Friends, a grass-roots organization that was founded after Sherman disbanded Our Part of the Woods, her first charity. Our Part of the Woods was started in 1994 but ended in 2000 after controversy with board members.

During its existence, Our Part of the Woods donated about $200,000 to Pembroke Pines schools and local children's causes.

Glades Middle School Assistant Principal Anthony Corrente and Principal Krista Herrera were pleased that Sherman crossed the border from Pembroke Pines to Miramar.

Glades Middle School serves children from both cities.

''Autistic students and [their] teachers don't get the recognition that others get because they are a school within a school. But, like anyone, they like the attention and appreciation,'' Corrente said.

Source: http://www.miamiherald.com/news/brow...ry/879234.html

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