Hmmm...let's see. I want to remain optimistic about Maxwell's transition into preschool, I really really do. And I do believe that everything will work out in the end...but there are a few road blocks that have been presented. A little frustrating indeed, but we'll see.
We have already had our many meetings with the school nurse (still much more to address in that arena) and she was great. Then we moved on to the coordinator of the deaf program. Hmmm...that was an interesting meeting. As predicted by Max's team, there was confusion on what Max needs for his expressive versus his receptive language.
Today we head to the school so we can observe the classroom and then meet with the school psychologist. She will begin the first of many observations of his cognitive and social development.
We know that Maxwell needs a one on one to help him understand the activities and also work with him on his communication. Curious to see how that plays out in our discussions today.
If the support for Max isn't available in the local public school, the other option is to take him to a deaf school down school (about 1 1/2 hours away).
Hmm....lots of important discussions and thinking to be had in the weeks and months to come. I know school resources are limited. However, it is Max's right to receive the support he needs for a complete education. Anytime I feel like I am being "pushy", I have to remind myself of that over and over again.
Fortunately Maxwell has an amazing team of therapists who know him (and me) very well. They understand his strengths and challenges. Several of them have agreed to come with us to Max's IEP (Individualized Education Plan) meeting. That should help tremendously.
I just know it will work out in the end...we just have to be clear on exactly what Maxwell needs and why. And if that doesn't work out, I guess Max and I will be spending A LOT of time in the car to/from Anacortes. Eeks! :)
5 comments:
Amy,
As a former Case Manager, be pushy. You gotta. Its not like youre being mean. And I suggest getting an advocate for him too if thats possible. Not trying to tell you what to do just helping.
-Shannon in Austin
Now on to watch the dishwasher video.
my heart and prayers are with you..continue to be his voice, his advocate, his future..Much love!!
I agree you have to push for what you want and whats best for Max. I feel lucky to have 2 wonderful schools near by, one for the deaf and one for special needs. Eva is doing so well and its amazing how being around others like him can help. Eva has already showed how much more she can do!!
Good luck,
Crystal and Eva
hope it does work otu
Amy, two suggestions:
1. Have all of Max's EI therapists write up their own brief evaluations of where Max is currently and what they feel his needs will be in preschool, and submit those to the school team. If they truly want to understand Max, they'll appreciate the information and won't be offended by the additional input.
2. Definitely take Max's EI therapists along with you to the IEP meeting. They'll give you much needed support and be able to participate in the discussions, as well as give you a feeling of a more even playing field. We had so many people at Katie's first IEP meeting, some of us had to share chairs! :-)
Good luck!
Leslie & Katie
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