Iowans with disabilities can be leaders

People have a tendency to judge people who need special education or are disabled.

I am an individual who has grown up in my hometown with some people dismissing me. Special education students and those who are currently disabled want to be respected. We work on city commissions and presidential campaigns, and some of us want to start businesses of our own. Many of us have become leaders in our communities across Iowa.

Gov. Kim Reynolds has introduced a program called 'STEM,” which stands for science technology, engineering, and math. It is time for others to accept that 'STEM” skills are easily attainable in special education and by people with disabilities. With some guidance to us with these skills, we will become productive citizens in our communities, states, and internationally.

Richard Stimmel

Maquoketa