Hey friends.

Calvin is 10 years old. He is brilliant and sensitive, loving and capable. Calvin has his own rhythm and it's what makes him Calvin.

Some people call that rhythm ADHD. Some might call it anxiety, sensory processing disorder, or autism. We don't know yet. What we do know is that he needs support, and instead of giving it, his school took his family to court.

Some of you probably know my super sweet sister, Laurie. She's Calvin's mom and a mama bear in the truest sense. She and Calvin's whole village have spent years protecting that rhythm, using every ounce of strength, love, and persistence they have.

From kindergarten on, Calvin struggled in the mornings. And, if pushed too fast, he would melt down. Laurie began asking the school for help years ago. She was told he didn't need an IEP. She kept fighting anyway. After four years, they finally granted one in October 2024.

But before that IEP existed, the school labeled him truant, even though his absences never exceeded district limits. When a new vice principal arrived in late 2023, everything intensified and now a trial has been set.

Laurie and Gus urgently need an aggressive attorney and independent neuropsychological testing for Calvin. These costs are more than either parent can pull from their bank account.

Calvin should not be marked truant because his internal metronome moves him to his own rhythm.

Please help us protect this child, his rhythm and his future.

Your friend,

Kathy