The Carlton Center in CyFair ISD

October 16, 2003

This recommendation is directly related to older children with severe conditions

(my son is 13-1/2 yrs old), but I would think it also indicates a school

district acutely aware of the magnitude of our concerns and making the

commitment to fulfill their responsibility. They know the consequences if the

early years are not thoroughly addressed. Many pioneering parents have come

before me, and this road is paved with their blood, sweat, and tears.

I relocated my family to the CyFair district 3 yrs ago to get my son (severely

autistic/non-verbal) into The Carlton Center. I am very satisfied with their

program. He started when he was 11 yrs old. CyFair doesn't automatically accept

students directly into this highly specialized campus. Initially he was placed

in the spec ed program of the neighborhood middle school. However, within 4 wks,

after multiple outbursts providing the documentation needed, they transferred

him to Carlton. As with all school district issues, there was a process. And

this unique school comes with a hefty price tag.

As a recent example.....We just had our ARD this week. The principal, teacher,

and speech path were excited about his progress and plans for the balance of the

year. This was the first time we discussed the idea of what comes after

graduation, a concept that fills me with dread. They are creating a Vocational

Portfolio which will document a variety of tasks he has been/will be offered

over the next 7 years, and identify those tasks that he excels at as well as

those he does not care for. By showing his strengths, supported with photographs

and detailed explanations, we intend to help him find job placement quickly and

accurately, helping with the transition into young adulthood. They are thinking

ahead, allowing opportunity to explore fully all the options. The principal is

energized, upbeat, enthusiastic, dedicated, and attracts and leads a team of

unique individuals. CyFair is building them a new building, ready in 2006,

specifically designed for their needs.

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