Thanks for writing. I’m so sorry to hear that the “fight” for Jacob’s education has begun so early. Also, I wouldn’t assume that the kids ostracized Alex prior to the teacher’s actions. In my experience, kids have a great sense of community, but in this case, the teacher interfered with that natural tendency and orchestrated Alex’s banishment.

BTW – are you familiar with Ari Ne’eman? He brings a refreshing voice to the medical model that pervades our culture. Worth checking out.

My wife and I are currently “at war” with the school district to ensure that our almost five year old son, Jacob, receives the right “free and appropriate” education. Jacob received his diagnosis of Autism in August 2006 and since then has received hundreds of ABA hours and has just completed his second year in a special day pre-school program.

He is intellectually smart and moderate to high moderate as far as function goes, but he is not ready emotionally for kindergarten. But, since he is of “school age” (never mind that developmentally he is not of “school age”) the district initially offered to place him in a — big surprise — special day kindergarten program.

Not surprisingly, this is the same offer they made to every other child in Jacob’s class, regardless of their level of function or actual “individual” needs. He has classmates who can’t speak in his class to those who are more typical, but exhibit inappropriately violent behavior. Sure sounds like they all need the same “individualized” plan to me!

We feel Jacob needs another year in a pre-school environment so he can develop his social skills. We want him in a typical pre-school with a one-on-one aide (we would prefer one through our ABA agency, but would be fine with a district aide). But, since he is “school age” (but more likely since they get more funding if he is in kindergarten) they are really making us work for what Jacob really needs.

We will now likely have to engage the services of a special education lawyer at a minimum cost of $5,000 (for the retainer) so we can get Jacob the “free and appropriate” education he deserves!

I couldn’t do anything to help myself when I was at the mercy of my peers and my teachers, but I can say something in regards to this little boy–and I can say it loudly. And maybe, through this one kid, we can set a precedent to make a difference. I’m adding you to my list.