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Special Needs Students Get Firsthand Experience With Air Travel

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Tony Maples Photography

 

Recently, students with special needs had the unique opportunity to get a sneak peek into the world of air travel. As many students struggle with the flying experience, a program called Wings for All, along with the Houston Airport System and United Airlines, provided this unique setting for the students. Wings for All is a program run through The Arc of Texas organization that is “specifically designed for individuals on the autism spectrum, people with intellectual/developmental disabilities and their families,” shares its website.

On Tuesday, October 10th students and their families arrived at the airport and were able to experience the process it takes to travel, but without the added pressure of flying out. According to an article by click2houston.com, this is the sixth time Wings for All holds the program in Houston. With so much that can be overwhelming for students and families, this program guides them through the process from arriving at the airport, checking in at the ticket counter and receiving their boarding pass, and even going through TSA security, and boarding a plane, as shared on its website.

“Seventy-plus percent of participants have never been on a flight and it’s exactly because of that. Because it’s such a stressful situation,” said Marcia Espinal, director of community engagement and advancement for The Arc of Texas,” with click2houston.com. For more about this organization visit their website at www.thearcoftexas.org