a whole new experience

Every spring, since 1st grade, we take the time to celebrate and develop new goals for Anna during her annual IEP (Individualized Education Plan) meeting through the Special Education Program in our district.

I tend to go into these meetings with a lot of mixed emotions. To be totally real...there has not been a meeting where I didn't cry. It really is hard to hear about all of the challenges that your child is having academically and socially; but then we get to the portion of the meeting where we hear all of the great things about her. I love that part.

This year's meeting was a whole new experience as Anna was able to be a part of the planning team. Highschool sure is a whole different ballgame. It was amazing to hear her talk about what she thought she excelled in and the areas that she thinks she needs a little more help.

At one point her freshman advisor asked her what she wanted to do or where she wanted to work and with a little bit of processing she stated so clearly "I want to work for Claire's!" Jewelry, accessories,and fashion for young women. Well, of course she does. Who wouldn't?

[photo is from the first day of school & journaling comes from September 2010 blog post.]

The Good Stuff - We listened to her freshman counselor who stated that she is making wonderful progress in completing  the appropriate amount of credits for a 9th grader. We read a form from her History Teacher who stated that she is one of his best students who completes all of her work in a timely manner. Her grade in that class is an A.

The Challenges -  I would be remiss if I didn't mention that her social skills (plus academics) need A LOT of work. We struggle with knowing if this program that she's in is the right fit. And what I mean by that is we have two choices:

1. Continue this program in which she can graduate with a highschool diploma or 
2. (possibly) move her to a Life Skills program in which she will receive a highschool certificate

She is still young enough for us to hold out on that decision. And in speaking with her highschool advisor, there is a possibility that we can merge the two programs together, since she could benefit from both.

Next Steps -  In June, we will begin the evaluation process for Autism/Aspergers. I realize that I should've done this a long time ago but I can't dwell on what has not been done.

We are very fortunate to have such a wonderful team around us who really take the time to get to know her and all of her strengths. Here's to moving forward!

Comments

[papirdiva.wordpress.com]

I'm happy to read that the high school is willing to merge the two programs. Sounds like she's doing good in some subjects (like history).

I do not have a formal diagnosis of Asperger's (some professionals have said yes, others have said no), but I fit on the spectrum. Not severely at all, but I think I can relate to how she feels.

I hope her future is as bright as it can be. And I hope you receive a diagnosis if it is required. Here, in Norway, where I teach, you pretty much have to have a diagnosis to receive any sort of help.

[lynn]

Hugs and prayers to you and your daughter. Sounds like she's a hardworker, I know your just busting at the seams.

[Sarah Webb]

Good for you! Stick with it. It will be well worth it in the end!

[Christa]

What a relief Michelle! As one of the people on the other side of the table from parents I hate seeing the angst and love the feeling when all goes well and everyone is happy.
I definitely wouldn't worry about waiting on the Aspergers/Autism piece. I have had lots of students who weren't evaluated and diagnosed until high school and were still able to receive lots of great services throughout high school.