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bandteacher1 · 02-18-2010, 05:45 PM

I agree with you Mr Dave, but here's the problem with that. Alot of the schools around here were built in the 60's or earlier, they were built before handicap laws were put into effect. But then they don't have the money to upgrade. Then you say that the state is required or should help them with funding, and then you realize that the state doesn't have money to give out. It's a rock and a hard place.
Luckily, at MICCA Finals, Lowell stadium is up-to-date, so they have ramps instead of stairs. But for the others up to that point, they don't. I put it to the BPA last night, and they're all for me asking Mitchel and John if they would help out with that. Those two are very into the program, and I have no doubt in my mind that they'll say yes without question.

And as for transportation, he get's dropped off by his dad. Unfortunately, his dad works on the weekends, all day, basically. There are special busses within the district that have the wheel chair lifts, but the problem with that is that they're used on the weekends for the community, such that an elderly person in a wheel chair needs to get around. The district lends them to the city, in return the city pays an hourly rate, such like a taxi. I've been looking into it, but everytime I talk to somebody about using one privately, they give me the red tape of politics.
However, one thing that was suggested, and is being considered heavily by myself and the BPA is that we have Mitchel or John carry James onto the bus, then just stash his chair on the bus or in the back of Paul's truck. I really don't feel right asking Mitchel or John to do this, because they will have their own gear to worry about. All the parts to their uniform, their own private items, and anything they need for their instrument (sticks) is a lot to keep up with. If nothing else, I may be able to ask Paul to put him on the bus.

Edit: Just so you know, you guys are being used as a think tank. Thanks alot!