District Talks Resume

Earlier this week, the district coordinator, Tracy, called me to find out why Raquel wasn't in school. Needless to say, I went off on her. She asked me when I would consider putting her back in class, and I told her that I would consider it once they start treating her like Raquel instead of just a number. I felt better after the conversation - was really able to voice my frustrations with the process - and also remind her that I requested a Behavior Support Plan at the IEP, and that the district denied it. And what did she need on her first day of class? A Behavior Support Plan. I told her that until the district acknowledges that I know her best and that my voice should count, she wouldn't be going near the classroom.

She agreed that things weren't handled in the best manner, but really wants her in school and that school is the best place for her. I don't agree with that - she continues to talk more and more, is getting into her little routines, and is very happy and content around here. Why mess with something that is working? Because we need the therapy resumed. Early intervention is the key, and the more therapy she gets the younger she is, the better her outcome. So I asked Tracy to provide me with a therapy schedule so I can decide when and where I can take her.

I spoke with her this afternoon and they are requesting that I take her to school from 1pm -2:15pm daily. 1pm is when therapy starts. I agreed to try it out next Tuesday when she will be able to have her session with Coach Tim. He is the only one that Raquel seemed to like (because he bailed her out of two really bad assessments) so I figure that if anyone has a shot at it, it's the Coach. We'll have to see what happens. She can't go on Wednesday because that is when she has the neurological appointment, and Thursday I have to pick Gabby up at 2:15pm and obviously can't be at two schools across town from each other at the same time.

I did hear from Regional this week and have been assigned a new case worker. The last one I had only has children up to age 3, so now that she's turned 3, her file was transferred to another person who will handle her up until, I think, age 5. I haven't had the opportunity to speak with her yet but plan on doing so at some point next week. She will be able to help me determine what my options are if I keep her out of a school setting. Raquel still qualifies for ongoing services regardless of her being in school or not. I just need to figure out exactly what is involved and how to go about getting it started.