Re: Getting needed ST from the school system

February 1, 2008

,

I just went through the same process and thought I had a very good

handle on it (I'm a special ed teacher and aware of most of the

laws). So I went into the process feeling prepared (didn't realize

it would be totally different when it's your own child). #1 don't go

to the transition/MFE/IEP meeting alone, take someone (anyone, but

preferably someone who knows the law and will be willng to speak up

for you); #2 go in knowing exactly what service you want and why (be

able to provide documentation as to why your child needs that service

(ask your EI SLP to write something up for you) - I had a ton of

research stating why kids w/ apraxia need more ST and how schools are

legally responsible for providing services to our kids (IDEA), they

still looked at me as if I'd grown another head. I believe that

schools only have to provide the minimum amount of service (30

minutes weekly), some may actually provide what the child needs

though; #3 don't be afraid to be verbal and/or walk out of the

meeting - you can always schedule another meeting to further discuss

your options (it took us 4 meetings to come to an agreement after I

made up a proposal for the school to pay for private ST (they don't

have an SLP on staff). I told them at the very begining of our

transition process that I was going to be a pain in their butt. I did

sign the IEP at our first MFE/IEP mtg, but I signed where it states

you agree to the IEP EXCEPT for... and I filled in what I didn't

agree with. That will actually start the date the school is

responsible for providing services (they may have to " catch up " on

services if something is not agreed to at first); #4 due process is

always an option and don't be afraid to use those words, school are

afraid of it (it can effect their funding). I was really

disappointed in our EI caseworker at our first IEP meeting, she sat

there and didn't say anything. I contacted local parent

mentors/advocates, local Special ed agencies, a state legal rights

group. Our school district knew I was right and what they were

offering was wrong, apparently I was just the first one to say no to

what they offered. Good luck!

Bonnie

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