RE: PA Class Action Suit--sound familiar Margaret???

[Guest guest]

Hi All,

We have settled a class action suit in Ct. in May 2003, regarding this issue.

The state has eight years to come into complete compliance. The state started

with eight of the least compliant districts, mine being one of them. I fought

this battle since Zeb started kindergarten. I was considered the most hated

parent in the district to the queen of inclusion,LOL. The district has done

good work toward meeting their obligations. The middle school seems to be the

least compliant in the district. I am just beginning to enter my next battle the

difference being I have the district behind me. It should prove to be an

interesting year for this principal and his staff. Zeb will be starting middle

school in the fall. I have already started observing classes at that school and

have had a meeting with the principal. My battle won't be easy but as I always

say to these educators that refuse to comply, it's your career not mine. I am

not looking forward to these next few months but I must do this for Zeb and for

all the children that will follow him. I anticipate more suits in other

states in the next few years.

Charlyne

Mom to Zeb 12 DS/OCD/ASD?

[Guest guest]

In a message dated 12/29/2004 6:55:09 PM Eastern Standard Time,

pastmidvale@... writes:

> Unfortunately, the problem with the case is that there is no arrangement

> to

> provide " appropriate " classroom space when children with differences are

> " included " . While we have parents on this list who have ore in the midst of

> including their children, some of us require increased classroom physical

> accomodation. I have yet to see a SD that will make more than cosmetic and

> ramp type accomodation. My son requires space as an accomodation- our SD

> dosen't even have adequate space according to OSHA, let alone space to

> encompass ASD needs for air!!

Hi Sara,

Need drives services. I was able to come up with some create alternatives for

space with Zeb, the district accomodated his every need. It will take time

and training for PA to meet the settlement agreement but in Ct. although we

still have much work to do life is so much better for all students with

disabilities. Zeb will be included in honors classes this year in the middle

school. The

instruction is more hands on and the peer modeling is more appropriate to his

needs. Inclusion can work with the proper staff, support, accomodations and

programs. With this district being targeted they are scared to death not to

comply to my every demand, accompanied by a savy sped attorney of a child with

DS

certainly helps promote the fear factor.

Charlyne

Mom to Zeb 12 DS/OCD/ASD?