The 32nd annual Special Education Retreat, held at Eagle Eyrie Baptist Conference Center Oct. 20-22, drew 371 people—204 of them students with special needs.
Alice Rusher
They were assigned to one of 14 classes by age and abilities. While they were in their classes, their parents and chaperons were being taught by Pamela Robinson of Rock Hill, S.C., a special education curriculum writer for LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention.
The annual talent show had more participants than in past years. On Saturday evening, the faculty entertained the conference with their version of Hee Haw 2006. All the TV characters were portrayed. The program was planned and directed by Mark Buckner of Stanardsville.
Alice Rusher
The Sunday worship highlight was the message by Nate Brown of Charlottesville. Brown, himself confined to a wheelchari, is an advocate for persons with disabilities.
Alice Rusher
The success of the retreat each year is due to a large part to the dedication of the faculty, most of whom are special education public school teachers who take a vacation day in order to serve on the retreat faculty each year. Many have been serving for over 15 years. Margie Campbell of Chester has served 31 of the 32 years the retreat has been held. Ann and Barry Green of Roanoke met at the retreat over 15 years ago, married and have been back for every retreat. When their two children, Joshua and Meredith, were born, the couple brought them to the retreat. Other faculty members such as Jane Sims, Jan Fletcher, Sharon Colgin—all of Richmond—have served for over 15 years. Carol Bowman of Richmond has served for over 20 years.
This year marks Wayne Coley's last time working with the retreat. He retired from the Virginia Baptist Children's Home and Family Services effective Oct. 31. “I'm very grateful for my 12 years association with the retreat, which is a blessing for all who attend,” he said.