Hi, I am very sorry I havent been here to reply at all in so long.
I have had issues with the school in the past, but I really believe that if you are a strong advocate for your child, and especially if you have a great pediatrician behind you, the school MUST give your child everything he/she is entitled to. They have to, its the law. If they cannot or will not provide services, then they are required to pay for a school/facility that will or can. Last year I was having some trouble and I simply pulled him from school. They panicked and called a meeting and I laid it out on the table what I demanded for Logan. Sure enough, I got every single thing he needed. He got a full time one-on-one aide, and a part-time tutor. He was removed from a class with a boy in it that was distracting him. This school year has been phenomenal. He has made huge advances and I am extremely pleased.
His conditions are a different issue altogether, we are still searching for answers there, but where the school is invovled, just make it clear you will not be told no. If it is something your child needs and will clearly benefit from, they MUST provide it. If they fight you, hire an advocate for special needs children or a lawyer. These base years are so important and there are many advocates and lawyers who will do this for free. Networking with other parents also helps because some of this information isnt readily available or advertised, it's all word of mouth. I just finally got to the point (he is in 2nd grade) where I said you know what? enough is enough. I saw my town putting in new fancy downtown benches, sidewalks, lamp posts etc. Re-beautifying they called it, which is great, but I pay a ****load of taxes to live in my town and I was determined to get my money's worth. If they have money to replace perfectly good sidewalks, they have money to help these kids who really need it. You just have to be stubborn and force them to see your points. Like I said, any physicians letters will help too. If they know you wont back down, and you have a good case, they will come around eventually I think. My school system did, and I have never been happier than I am this year. I even wrote letters to all the school officials praising the team that is in place this year. ( a little praise (butt kissing) doesnt hurt either.) when they are doing a great job, tell them so. Dont give up!
