Reply #5: PS 15 parents say kids with special needs crowded out by PAVE in bldg. [View All]

http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/education/2010/05/12/2010-05-12_red_hook_parents_push_to_toss_pave_charter_school_from_ps_15_space.html

"Parents John Battis and Lydia Bellahcene have charged the DOE violated state education law by failing to spell out the impact on PS 15 students of having PAVE in the Sullivan St. building.

"We're fighting for our local school," said Battis, 46, a hospital administrator whose son Liam attends pre-K at PS 15. If Steiner grants the appeal, PAVE will have to find a new home, Battis said.

Battis and Bellahcene allege students at the A-rated public school have less space for general education classes and special education therapy since PAVE moved in two years ago.

"Two-thirds of our kids have special needs," said Battis. "Now our facilities for them are being squeezed."

..""Tensions are high," said Bellahcene, who has three children at the school, including Lailah, 5, a kindergarten student with special needs.

"Lailah's still getting her physical therapy in a locker room because there's no place else to do it," Bellahcene said. "We're in this battle for the long haul."

PAVE and DOE officials disputed the appeal."