The year 2015 was very eventful because of saree Pact. It changed many things in my life, gave me a broader perspective and clearer vision.
I took advocacy class with federation of children's with special needs. 6 hours in 9 classes, 45 miles one way drive. it was all worth it. the class gave me tools and association for life. I became a regular volunteer with Federation after that.
One session was conducted by Dr. Joe Petner. He is a game changer educator in Special education.
He statred his presentation in a very interactive way. He is a champion of our kids and he spoke about communication and relation between parents and school system. he spoke about our village and yes the school and teachers are very important part of our village.
I believe in this and very much encourage parents to understand and support school and teachers. I feel that we all want good for all our kids. I have 100s of stories to tell about greatness of teachers and their limited capabilities. I strongly believe in that collaboration and communication, what he spoke I have seen in my life. I have come across teachers who go beyond their means and area to support our kids. Anand is a perfect example.
I will give you a story of my IEP meeting when Anand was in 10th grade -
When you worry and only worry and then you feel it was for nothing. That's what happened last Friday IEP meetings are always nerve wracking for all the parents. We are never prepared enough, You read and write and re-read and just hope things will work out for good.
We have been lucky with Anand's team. Last year it was a big change for him, a brand new very big high school, lots of kids, and new teachers in a co-taught class room. But his IEP liaison Ms K was wonderful and very experienced teacher, We just connected right away.
This year I met the teach, a very young Ms. R. I found her very calm, soft and caring but didn't know what to expect in terms of IEP and services.
Thursday I went to a special need class ( more about it later) there I learnt so many new things. I had to redo my IEP notes. after a LONG day and 80 miles drive By the time I went to bed it was 1 AM. I woke up early to get some work done and we were at school by 7.20.
The kids can be part of IEP meeting once they are 14. Anand was invited, poor kid he was so nervous being in that room with so many teachers. but he did good. We all talked about Anand's need and his requirement and what can we all, as a team, do to make him successful. and all of sudden I felt I shouldn't worry much, they all love him and we all want him to be happy and successful. an hour in that room and when I came out, I wasn't a sleep deprived, worried mother, I was a happy one.
Moms reading this, please take a moment to send a thank you note to your kids teachers, check with school once a while and offer if you could help with anything.
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