Online discussion q.3
I think that the main thing I would like to see change is the ability of the specialist teacher to fully disclose to the parent all available interventions irregardless of any incurred financial costs to the district. Many times specialized equipment is not included in the IEP because the school district is responsible for purchasing this equipment. It is left to the parent of the special needs student to educate themselves about their childs disability and any interventions which they discover to enable their student to succeed. Then they must pressure the school district IEP team to include these interventions into the students educational plan.
In order for all students to succeed in their education they need the materials to do the job requested of them. The public becomes outraged at reports of students without the proper books, pencils, or materials. Yet the student who would benefit from the use of an electronic speech device is ignored because it is affecting only maybe one single student. But the use of such an expensive piece of equipment is denied the student and that one student is left to struggle to communicate their ideas with picture cards and a bulky storage binder.
I think it is a shame that money and funding presents additional barricades to an already challenged individual. Perhaps they may never find the cure for cancer or become the President, but they contribute love, joy and happiness to the families and others who embrace their differences.
I think that the main thing I would like to see change is the ability of the specialist teacher to fully disclose to the parent all available interventions irregardless of any incurred financial costs to the district. Many times specialized equipment is not included in the IEP because the school district is responsible for purchasing this equipment. It is left to the parent of the special needs student to educate themselves about their childs disability and any interventions which they discover to enable their student to succeed. Then they must pressure the school district IEP team to include these interventions into the students educational plan.
In order for all students to succeed in their education they need the materials to do the job requested of them. The public becomes outraged at reports of students without the proper books, pencils, or materials. Yet the student who would benefit from the use of an electronic speech device is ignored because it is affecting only maybe one single student. But the use of such an expensive piece of equipment is denied the student and that one student is left to struggle to communicate their ideas with picture cards and a bulky storage binder.
I think it is a shame that money and funding presents additional barricades to an already challenged individual. Perhaps they may never find the cure for cancer or become the President, but they contribute love, joy and happiness to the families and others who embrace their differences.
