I started this petition because what Micheal Kelly has had to endure in life and triumph over, with both down syndrome and autism, should not be restrained on his path towards success.

Watch the video and read the story at the link herein please.

You should support this petition because this young man is worthy of and has earned a merit that he should be able to proudly wear on a letter jacket in display of his accomplishment through athletics and school spirit and this (a varsity letter) has been, although not officially awarded, taken from him, which no doubt has to hurt quite a bit and as you can see in his pictures online he is so proud to wear his uniform for basketball for the team he plays on and his jacket and letter, a gift from his Mother, representing his school, which his principal forced the removal of, as reported, and he was subsequently made to wear a sweatshirt instead.

This is important because although any special needs child may not be able to compete at a varsity level in a particular program in their school, they may compete in a program specifically for those with special needs, if available, and should be able to earn a letter in athletics or any other area, show their spirit and enthusiasm, and share in collective achievement as varsity letterman just as those that are more able bodied, even if no team or organization exists for them to compete on. Their spirit and dedication alone should be properly awarded this distinguished recognition when certain goals are met, which should be up to any coach, athletic director, teacher, or other school official, depending upon the letter being awarded respectively. 

The underlying lesson in athletics and other organizations is that teamwork and dedication can offer one greater success then they will gain should they pursue any goal on their own where others could have been involved. It offers camaraderie, a sense of earned prestige, and ultimately a further stepping stone towards success. It supports the principles of great citizenship and working with others which is always rewarding.

Why should any student be disqualified from earning a letter at all, especially when they are competing and obviously worthy of such merit?

Your support can make a difference in his life and in the lives of others as we further correct and amend practices that are really discriminatory in nature and against the real principles of education.